EFFECTS OF BOTTLE FEEDING ON OROFACIAL DEVELOPMENT AND OCCLUSION

Key words: Bottle feeding, Breastfeeding, Orofacial development, Occlusion

The physiopathology of orofacial development under different circumstances (breast and bottle feeding) is described and the abnormal occlusion that may derive from prolonged bottle feeding and use of dummies, even in previously breastfed babies, is pointed out. Observational studies are reported that show that increased incidence of orofacial abnormalities and occlusion problems is associated with bottle feeding, with babies who were not bottle-fed being practically free from occlusion problems. Abnormal orofacial development and breathing patterns may also contribute to higher incidence of recurrent respiratory infections in bottle-fed infants and toddlers. These findings represent an additional reason for supporting prolonged breastfeeding and avoiding bottles and dummies.