A study reported in the Journal of the American Dental Association (August 2017) suggests that optimal breastfeeding (at least one year) may prevent malocclusion among children with primary dentition. In the study, children who were breastfed were less likely to develop a class II canine relationship (retruded bite,) a posterior crossbite (upper and lower jaws are not in alignment), and an anterior open bite (front teeth in lower and upper teeth do not contact.) The study clarifies that this does not mean that future alignment problems can arise. Still, it is worth noting that breastfeeding can give your child a great orthodontic beginning.
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It is important to note that when a dentist detects a malocclusion in a very young child, he/she should be able to determine whether genetic, environmental factors, or both after a close examination. This will help in determining future treatment plans.
