PREVÂLÊNCIA DE RESPIRAÇÃO MISTA EM CRIANÇAS DE 0 A 3 ANOS NOS CEMEI’s DE PARAÍSO DO TOCANTINS
PREVÂLÊNCIA DE RESPIRAÇÃO MISTA EM CRIANÇAS DE 0 A 3 ANOS NOS CEMEI’s DE PARAÍSO DO TOCANTINS
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.936122606035
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Palavras-chave: Desenvolvimento Infantil, Má Oclusão, Respiração Bucal
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Keywords: Child Development, Malocclusion, Mouth Breathing
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Abstract: Nasal breathing is essential for proper craniofacial growth and the development of stomatognathic functions in childhood. Persistent mouth or mixed breathing can lead to structural, functional, and systemic alterations, especially during the early years of life. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of signs suggestive of mouth breathing in children aged 0 to 3 years enrolled in Municipal Early Childhood Education Centers (CMEIs) in Paraíso do Tocantins, TO, Brazil, as well as to identify associated factors. Methodology: This was an observational, cross-sectional, and quantitative study conducted through interviews with parents or guardians and direct observation of children in the school environment. A total of 553 children were evaluated, and the presence of at least one characteristic clinical sign was considered indicative of suspected mouth breathing. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The prevalence of signs suggestive of mouth breathing was 38.5%. The most frequent clinical manifestations were absence of lip seal (68%), mouth open at rest (54%), and flaccid cheeks (46%). A higher occurrence was observed among males (53.7%). Deleterious oral habits, such as prolonged use of pacifiers or bottles, sleeping with the mouth open, and breastfeeding for less than six months, were associated with altered breathing patterns. Conclusion: The high prevalence of signs of mouth breathing in young children highlights the importance of early screening in the educational setting. Early identification and timely intervention may contribute to the prevention of craniofacial and functional developmental alterations and improve children’s quality of life, reinforcing the need for educational actions and a multidisciplinary approach.
- Ian Marquez de Medeiros Costa
- Rise Consolação Iuata Costa Rank
- Isis Eveliny Freitas Leandro
- Eduarda de Melo Gonçalves Costa
- Luciana Marquez
- Michele Dala