Impact of Prolonged Mobile Phone Use on Posture and Malocclusion in Children Aged 6-13 Years: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of mobile phone usage on posture and malocclusion in children aged 6-13 years. The relationship between mobile phone use, craniovertebral angle, and dental malocclusion was examined. Materials and Method: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 200 children aged 6-13 years in Davangere city. Participants were divided into two groups: mobile phone users (using a phone for more than 1 hour/day) and non-users (less than 1 hour/week). Data collection involved a structured questionnaire, craniovertebral angle measurement through side-profile images, and intraoral examinations to assess malocclusion. Statistical analysis included the Chi-Square Test and Independent Samples t-Test. Results: Mobile phone users had a significantly lower craniovertebral angle (p < 0.001), indicating a greater degree of forward head posture. A significant association was observed between mobile phone use and slouched posture (p = 0.019), increased overjet (p = 0.003), crowding in the upper arch (p = 0.011), spacing in the upper anterior teeth (p = 0.009), and posterior crossbite (p < 0.001). Habits like mouth breathing and thumb sucking were significantly higher in mobile phone users (p = 0.003). Conclusion: Findings suggest that children who use mobile phones for extended durations are more likely to exhibit forward head posture, which is associated with an increased prevalence of malocclusion. This study highlights the relationship between prolonged mobile phone use, postural changes, and malocclusion in children.