Comparitive assessment of bite forces in subjects treated for anterior mandibular fractures with 3-dimensional plates and standard miniplates

Abstract

Background: Loss of masticatory function is one of the important effects of mandibular fractures. Therefore the therapeutic goal of management is to restore original anatomic form and function. Considering this, maximal bite force could be a major factor for evaluating the success of treatment. Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the efficiency of 2.0mm 3-Dimensional plates and two standard 2.0 mm Miniplates in the fixation of anterior mandibular fractures i.e, the parasymphysis and symphysis fractures on the basis of bite force and other clinical parameters. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 30 patients with isolated fractures of anterior mandible region. The patients were categorized into two groups with 15 patients in each group. In group A patients were treated with 3-Dimensional miniplate and in group B patients were treated with two conventional Miniplates and these patients were evaluated pre-operatively, immediate post-op, 1st week, 4th week, 3rd month and 6th post-op months using bite force and other clinical parameters. Results: The study results revealed no statistically significant difference between the study groups with respect to root damage and mal-union. There was occlusal discrepancy, mobility of fracture segments, and post-op infection observed in Conventional plate group which was absent in 3D plate group. One patient in Conventional plates group had to undergo implant retrieval due to persistent infection and experienced neurosensory deficit even after 6th post-op month. The bite force measurement between the study groups showed statistical significant increase of bite force in the right premolar and right molar regions at 4th post-op month, 3rd post-op month and 6thpost op-month. In 3D plate group, patients showed increased bite force values in comparison to Conventional plates group throughout the follow up intervals. Conclusion: This study concluded that the use of 3D miniplates in anterior mandibular fractures