Abstract
ABSTRACT|INTRODUCTION: The stomatognathic system (SS) is a functional unit made up of the jaws, dental arches, masticatory muscles, and associated structures. The components of the SS act in unison to influence or control functional activities such as phonation, deglutition, mastication, and respiration. The aim of this literature review was to determine the impact of functional activities of the stomatognathic system on overall body posture based on available research studies. |RESOURCES: A thorough literature review of scholarly publications from peer reviewed journals was conducted. |DESCRIPTION: The review included available research material dealing with the functional impact of the SS on body posture. Emphasis was placed on similar findings and correlations to dental occlusion. |SIGNIFICANCE: A proven causal link or predictable relationship between stomatognathic function and positioning of the spine, ribcage, or pelvis would influence clinical treatment methods for a wide range of orthopedic issues such as scoliosis and low back pain. The literature has shown that body posture appears modifiable under experimental conditions, however, these findings seem limited to the head and neck region and in the case of occlusal interference evidence points to predominantly transient changes. A causal link or predictable relationship between dental occlusion and body posture did not emerge from the studies included suggesting low clinical significance of findings.