Relationship of mother-child emotional interactions and oral habits in 3-6-year-old children: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Continuation of oral habits in children can bring about adverse oral and dental health consequences. Considering the significance of psychological and emotional factors in this regard, this study aimed to assess the effect of mother-child emotional interactions on continuation of oral habits in 3-6-year-old children. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted between Jun 2023- May 2024 on 196 eligible children between 3-6 years. The first questionnaire included questions regarding family demographics, infancy period, and oral habits of the child and family members (thumb sucking, pacifier use, bruxism, nail biting). The second questionnaire had 26 questions regarding mother-child emotional interactions, which were filled out by the parents. The collected data were compared between the two groups with and without oral habits. Results: Bruxism and nail biting had a higher prevalence than other habits. The two groups had a significant difference in the mean score of mother-child emotional interactions, and children with poorer mother-child interactions had a significantly higher frequency of oral habits (P=0.037). Boys had a significantly higher frequency of oral habits than girls (P=0.022). Also, oral habits had a significantly higher frequency in children with a positive family history for oral habits (P=0.000). However, other demographic factors had no significant association with oral habits (P>0.05). Conclusion: Considering the increased prevalence of oral habits such as bruxism and nail biting, and the significant effect of mother-child emotional interactions on continuation of such habits in children, mother-child interactions should be investigated and improved in children over 3 years with oral habits