Malocclusion, mastication and the gastrointestinal system: a review.

The relationship between malocclusion and the gastrointestinal system has only been examined occasionally, while several pertinent studies have addressed the chewing function as a functional link between oral structures and the gastrointestinal tract. Following an overview of the physiological masticatory process, the available evidence regarding associations among dental status, chewing function and gastrointestinal disorders are summarized. Finally, a review of the relationships between orthodontic deformities and mastication is presented.