Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship between dental occlusion and spinal posture in pediatric patients presenting with spinal deviations.
Materials and Methods: Thirteen children aged 8–14 years, consulting at the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) department of Mustapha University Hospital, Algiers, were examined. Spinal evaluation was performed by a PMR specialist, and dental examination by a dental prosthetics specialist. Data collected included skeletal Angle classification, molar class, type of spinal deformity, lower limb static disorders, and radiographic findings.
Results: Among the 13 children, 9 were girls and 4 boys, with a mean age of 11.23 years. Spinal deformities included scoliosis (10 cases), hyperlordosis (1 case), and dorsal kyphosis (2 cases). Skeletal dental classes included Class I (6 cases), Class II (4 cases), and Class III (3 cases). More than 50% of patients presented with pathological occlusion. Orthopedic management included Cheneau-type braces and corrective or compensatory insoles.
Discussion: The findings suggest a potential association between malocclusion and spinal posture, consistent with previous studies. However, the small sample size limits the ability to draw definitive conclusions. Clinical evaluation of scoliotic children should consider the possible influence of occlusion on posture and vice versa. Current literature suffers from methodological limitations, and causal relationships remain unclear.
Conclusion: While a clinical correlation between dental occlusion and spinal posture appears evident, no direct cause-effect relationship has been established. Multidisciplinary approaches and further research are needed to better understand potential interactions and inform therapeutic strategies.
Keywords: Dental occlusion, spinal posture, malocclusion, scoliosis, pediatric dentistry, physical medicine and rehabilitation.
