Effect of skeletal malocclusions on sleep quality

Sleep is a state of inactivity and unconsciousness that disappears with stimuli such as sound and light that allow the body to rest and regenerate. Breathing and sleep quality are interrelated. Malocclusions can affect airway dimensions, but the effect of skeletal malocclusions on sleep quality is not clearly known. The aim of our study was to determine the effect of skeletal malocclusions on the sleep quality of patients aged 7-13 years who applied to Uşak University Faculty of Dentistry Orthodontic Clinic. SNA, SNB and ANB values were determined to define the skeletal sagittal classifications of the individuals included in our study, and GoGn-SN and FMA values were determined for vertical evaluation. In order to determine the sleep quality and behavioral and emotional problems of the patients, the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ) and behavioral and emotional problem questionnaire were asked to be completed by the parents. As a result of the data obtained, the patients were divided into 3 groups; skeletal Class I, II and III. The difference in sociodemographic data and CSHQ scores between the groups was evaluated statistically. Separately in each skeletal sagittal group; The relationship between CSHQ score and vertical height, SNA and SNB was determined. Each analysis was repeated without gender discrimination and by examining the effect of gender, taking into account age and socioeconomic level. In our study, it was concluded that increased vertical height and lagging of the mandible compared to the anterior cranial base adversely affected sleep quality, but age, gender, socioeconomic level and skeletal sagittal classification did not affect sleep quality. It was determined that the presence of behavioral and emotional problems adversely affected sleep quality and this relationship was mostly observed in Class II individuals. In the data we obtained from our study, we determined that sleep quality was negatively affected in skeletal malocclusions that reduce airway size compared to the literature. For this reason, it should be considered that skeletal malocclusions are a factor that can affect sleep quality.