Abstract

Habits are unconsciously performed repetitive actions. Functional habits actions like nasal breathing, chewing, and swallowing is essential for the growth and development of a child. Para functional habits on the other hand, result from unnecessary actions and have a detrimental effect on the growth and development of a child. They are responsible for a wide array of developmental anomalies, from minor traumatic injuries, malocclusions to major life-threatening ones. This review discusses some of the most interesting case reports depicting the impact of these habits on children. This will help the general practitioner in diagnosing Para functional habits. Also, this review throws light on the etiological aspect of Para functional habits so that they can be nipped at the bud stage.

Keywords: Children; Malocclusion; Parafunctional habits; Trauma