Association of dento-maxillary anomalies with gastroesophageal reflux disease

Abstract

Dento-maxillary anomaly is a pathology that targets branches of orthodontics and oro-maxillo-facial surgery, more specifically orthognathic surgery, as medical specialties, motivated by their frequency, their impact on the functionality (mastication, breathing and swallowing), aesthetics and general health of the patient. In recent years, studies suggest a possible correlation between malocclusions and gastroesophageal reflux syndrome, a condition marked by the reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus, up to the oral cavity. The study was carried out following the analysis of articles published in international databases during the period 2000-2025. The selection criteria for publications provided for a rigorous methodological evaluation and demonstrated scientific relevance. The associations between anomalies and gastroesophageal reflux were documented and argued based on scientific evidence extracted from specialized sources. The analyzed literature reveals a series of predisposing factors in the impact of malocclusions on reflux: masticatory deficiency - by affecting the correct initiation of digestion and altering intra-abdominal pressure; chronic oral breathing - by imbalances in cervical and thoracic muscle tone, which favors the occurrence of transient relaxations of the lower esophageal sphincter, the main physiopathological mechanism of reflux; obstructive apnea - by decreasing intrathoracic pressure determined by obstruction of the upper airways due to the posterior position of the lower jaw, as well as narrow jaws. Data from the scientific literature support the existence of a link between dento-maxillary anomalies and gastroesophageal reflux syndrome. Malocclusions can favor the installation or worsening of the symptomatology of gastroesophageal reflux syndrome through associated disorders, with common physiopathological and functional mechanisms.