Dental occlusion and posture: an overview

Abstract

Objectives: In recent decades, it has been suggested that disorders of the masticatory system such as malocclusions, can influence whole body posture. A growing number of patients are seeking concomitant treatment for dental malocclusions and postural disorders. The aim of this overview is to critically analyze the relationship between dental occlusion and posture.

Materials and methods: A literature overview was carried out to analyze the association between "malocclusion" versus "head posture", "spine curvature", and "body sway".

Results: The studies showed that even if some associations have been found between occlusal factors and postural alterations, there is not enough scientific evidence to support a cause-effect relations. Most studies suffer from major flaws such as lack of control groups, failure to take into account for the possible confounders, inappropriate study design, and lack of sufficient reliability and validity of used diagnostic tests.

Conclusions: On the basis of this overview, it is not advisable to perform occlusal and/or orthodontic treatment, especially if irreversible and expensive, to treat or prevent postural imbalances or alteration of spine curvatures.