FAIREST-6 as a Screening Tool for Sleep-Disordered Breathing, Orthodontic Needs, and BMI in Children During the Mixed Dentition Period.

BACKGROUND

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in children is a growing health concern, with dentists playing a key role in early detection.

AIM: This cross-sectional study evaluates the FAIREST-6 screening tool for identifying SDB and associated orofacial dysfunctions during mixed dentition and examines its relationship with orthodontic parameters and body mass index (BMI).

DESIGN

The study included 100 children from Marmara University. SDB was assessed using the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC), while FAIREST-6, the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN), and Angle's classification were used for clinical evaluations. BMI was calculated, and statistical analyses were performed with SPSS.

RESULTS

FAIREST-6 scores were significantly associated with SDB (p < 0.001) but not with IOTN (p = 0.053). However, IOTN scores correlated with SDSC (p = 0.033), suggesting a link between malocclusion severity and sleep disturbances. BMI varied significantly across FAIREST-6 scores (p = 0.002), indicating a relationship between obesity and airway issues. No significant differences were found based on gender or age (p > 0.050).

CONCLUSION

FAIREST-6 shows potential as a screening tool for SDB and related orofacial dysfunctions in children. Further research is needed to validate its clinical use and explore its role in assessing SDB, malocclusion, and BMI.