Comparison of occlusal bite force distribution in subjects with different occlusal characteristics

ABSTRACT

Objective

To analyze bite force distribution in subjects with different occlusal characteristics.

Methods

This prospective study included 132 candidates (50 males, 82 females) seeking orthodontic treatment, who were divided into four groups based on Angle’s classification of malocclusion. T-Scan® III Version 7.0 was used to record their relative distribution of bite forces, which were compared using gender, Angle’s occlusal classification, overjet, overbite, space analysis, sagittal, and transverse skeletal relations variables.

Results

ANOVA revealed significant differences in posterior/anterior bite force ratios between sagittal dental and skeletal relationships, overjet, and overbite groups (p < 0.05). No significant difference was found between different space analysis and transverse relationship groups (p > 0.05) or between genders (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Subjects with Class III, decreased overjet and decreased overbite displayed higher bite force in posterior teeth compared to other groups. This feature must be considered when evaluating patients with dental and periodontal pathologies that might be affected by excessive tooth stress, especially in subjects with oral parafunctions and bruxism.

KEYWORDS:

• Dental occlusion
• computerized occlusal analysis
• T-Scan
• bite force
• occlusal balance

Acknowledgments

This project was funded by the Deanship of Scientific Research (DSR), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, under grant no. (514/165/1436). The investigators, therefore, acknowledge, with thanks, DSR technical and financial support.

The authors also would like to thank Professor Mohammad S. Al-Zahrani for his valuable comments and statistical advice.

Disclosure statement

The authors have no conflict of interest.