Unusual case of prolonged breastfeeding in an orthodontic patient

Abstract

Case report: This article presents the case of an 11-year-old patient who sought orthodontic treatment, complaining of crooked teeth. In anamnesis, an emotional and physical dependence was reported regarding the act of breastfeeding. Considerations on the diagnosis, psychological implications, and clinical approach in this rare case were addressed. An orthodontic treatment and myofunctional therapy were performed to resolve the occlusal and functional aspects of the patient. Psychological therapy for the child and her mother was required to handle emotional sequelae. Conclusion: Multidisciplinary treatment was prescribed. Dentists should be aware of this need in cases of patients with special characteristics for treatment beyond oral problems. In orthodontics, this may be the difference between effective treatment outcomes or not.