Clinical study of masticatory movements in complete denture wearers--paths of masticatory movements and occlusal contacts

Abstract

Bilateral balanced occlusion is believed to be one of the ideal types of occlusion for a complete denture since the occlusal contacts on the non-working side are concerned with the stability of the complete denture during mastication. In this study, the role of the occlusal contacts on the non-chewing side was investigated. The paths of masticatory movements were measured by sirognasograph and the occlusal contacts on the non-chewing side were measured by the 6-channel telemetry system. The results were follows; 1. The frequency of normal chewing pattern was observed to be higher in chewing on the habitual chewing side than in chewing on the non-habitual chewing side. 2. The average value in lateral deviations at the maximum opening point and maximum lateral closing point was larger in chewing on the habitual chewing side than in chewing on the non-habitual chewing side. 3. Excursive closures were found in 36.0-71.1% among the total closures when chewing on the habitual chewing side and 4.9-20.9% on the non-habitual chewing side. 4. The majorities of the excursive closures consisted of glidings from the lateral position to the centric position. 5. The width of the gliding in lateral excursion on the occlusal surface of the lower first molar was mostly 0.2-1.2mm.