AAssociation of early childhood caries and malocclusion patterns: A pedodontic-orthodontic perspective.

Early childhood caries (ECC) is a major pediatric oral health problem that may adversely affect normal occlusal and craniofacial development in children. Therefore, it is of interest to evaluate the relationship between early childhood caries (ECC) and developing malocclusion patterns in young children. A cross-sectional pedodontic-orthodontic assessment was conducted to determine how caries severity influences occlusal development. Findings show a significant association between severe ECC and malocclusions such as increased overjet, crossbite and anterior open bite. Behavioral and dietary factors further contributed to this relationship. Early preventive intervention and integrated dental care are essential to reduce long-term developmental issues.