Non-nutritive sucking habits x malocclusions - literature review

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the relationship between non-nutritive sucking habits and the development of malocclusions through a literature review. Searches were conducted in the MEDLINE and PubMed databases, including articles from 2015 to 2025. Non-nutritive sucking, such as pacifier use and thumb sucking, is associated with malocclusions such as anterior open bite and increased overjet, with a prevalence of 34.01% in children aged 3 to 6 years. Exclusive breastfeeding for more than 6 months reduces the propensity for these habits, while artificial feeding increases the risk. Early interruption of these habits allows for self-correction in the deciduous dentition, and multidisciplinary interventions are effective. It is concluded that non-nutritive sucking is a significant etiological factor for malocclusions, and prevention and early intervention are fundamental.