NCT07534306

Impact of Atypical Swallowing on Periodontal Health in Adults

Epidemiological Investigation of Atypical Swallowing in the Adult Population: Assessment of Clinical Signs

• Status: Completed
• Phase: —
• Study type: Observational
• Enrollment: 125 (actual)
• Sponsor: University of Roma La Sapienza · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of atypical (dysfunctional) swallowing in an adult population affected by periodontitis. The research investigates the correlation between dysfunctional swallowing patterns-characterized by abnormal tongue thrust-and clinical oral manifestations such as dental mobility and the worsening of periodontal conditions. By analyzing data collected through patient questionnaires and clinical evaluations, the study seeks to highlight how incorrect lingual posture and pressure can negatively influence the integrity of the tooth-supporting tissues in adults.

Detailed description

The study aims to investigate whether atypical swallowing acts as a "secondary occlusal trauma," which exacerbates periodontal damage in tissues already compromised by inflammation. Data Collection: Patients are screened using a specific questionnaire to detect "vicious habits" (e.g., thumb sucking, lip biting) and respiratory issues (e.g., mouth breathing due to deviated septum or adenoid hypertrophy) that contribute to incorrect lingual posture. Clinical Indicators: The study monitors several oral manifestations associated with tongue thrust, including the formation of an anterior open bite, diastemas, localized calculus accumulation, and gingival recessions.Clinical Implications: The research explores how the lack of physiological palatal expansion and low tongue posture can lead to a narrow "ogival" palate and subsequent occlusal instability.The results are intended to validate the importance of a multidisciplinary diagnostic approach-involving dental hygienists, orthodontists, and speech therapists-to improve the long-term prognosis of periodontal therapy and prevent orthodontic relapses.

Conditions

• Atypical Swallowing
• Periodontal Disease

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-11-01
• Primary completion: 2025-09-01
• Completion: 2026-03-01
• First posted: 2026-04-16
• Last updated: 2026-04-16

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Italy