Comparison Between Maximum Bite Force on First Molar with Prosthesis and Contralateral First Molar Without Prosthesis

Abstract

Background: Bite force is an indicator of the functional state of the masticatory system that results from the action of jaw elevator muscles modified by the craniomandibular biomechanics. Bite force measurement is essential in dental treatment as an extreme bite force on tooth may affect health of periodontium and increase risk of prosthesis fracture. A patient with low biting force may be helpful for the successful long-term outcome of prosthesis. A variety of devices has been used to record human bite force. Nowadays, sensitive electronic devices are used those are both accurate and precise enough. Recently, T-scan has been more popular to record the pattern of occlusion. The T-scan system precisely and dynamically records the occlusal contact time, force, and area in percentage. T-scan identify both force and timing which are the most fundamental parameters for measuring occlusion. The present study was designed to compare maximum bite force on first molar with prosthesis and contralateral first molar without prosthesis by using T-scan. Objectives: To compare maximum bite force (MBF) on first molar with prosthesis and contralateral first molar without prosthesis. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental type study was conducted in the Department of Prosthodontics, BSMMU. The patients were selected by a consecutive sampling technique, requiring permanent restoration in endodontically treated first molar on one side and natural first molar on contralateral side. The selected tooth was prepared for full veneer crown following standard procedure with armamentarium. Symptomless patients up to 3 months were measured bite force on cemented prosthesis and contralateral natural tooth. Bite force was measured with T-scan for three times with 30 sec interval and highest value was recorded in a data collection sheet for each patient to compare maximum bite force on first molar with prosthesis and contralateral first molar without prosthesis in the same patient. Result: The maximum bite force at the first molar without prosthesis was 14.30 ±4.2% and first molar with prosthesis was 12.05 ±3.55%. Tooth without prosthesis maximum bite force was significantly more than the tooth with prosthesis. Conclusion: Maximum bite force was significantly higher in tooth without prosthesis than the tooth with prosthesis. The difference of maximum bite force was not statistically significant in relation to gender, age and BMI.