Efficacy of breastfeeding in Dentomaxillofacial development: Narrative review of the literature

Breastfeeding significantly influences dentomaxillofacial development and growth, especially during the first 6 months of life (1). It also prevents dental malocclusions, crowding, mandibular retrognathism, open bite, dental protrusion and improves the development of facial muscles (2). The objective of this study was to carry out a review of published articles that established the efficacy of breastfeeding in dentomaxillofacial development. Method: A critical review of the literature was carried out through a search in the databases: Scopus, Scielo and PubMed. Through a series of inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 12 articles were reviewed. Results: Although it is a matter of debate, it is determined that this act really helps in the development and dentomaxillofacial growth, it also acts as a preventive measure for the evolution of different anomalies. Conclusion: Breastfeeding is an effective method that favors the growth and development of craniofacial structures, stimulates muscle action through mechanical work, contributing to the correct positioning of the mandible and the transverse increase of the jaws for an adequate development of dental occlusion.