Oro-Functional Conditions in a 6-to-14-Year-Old School Children Population in Rome: An Epidemiological Study

Background: The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to assess oral and functional conditions, the prevalence of malocclusions, and oral habits in a population of schoolchildren in Rome (Italy). Methods: The study sample included n. 1033 subjects, between 6 and 14 years of age, attending public schools in Rome. Oral health condition, occlusal relationship, and functional analysis were charted for all subjects. The rate of prevalence for the dental health element was calculated. To evaluate the relationship be- tween the variables examined, Pearson’s Chi-square test was used to assess the significative findings of this association. Results: More than half of the students had a low level of oral hygiene (654 subjects). Class I malocclusion was the most common occlusal condition (573 subjects). Oral habits were present in most of the subjects and more than one habit was observed. Conclusions: The results of the current investigation highlight the necessity of improving public health programs for orthodontic prevention, and future screenings need to be planned to organize resources in Rome.