Abstract
Background: The vertical distance between the upper and lower incisal edge of the central incisors when the mouth is opened as wide as possible is called maximum mouth opening (MMO). Any pathological change in the masticatory system had a direct effect on the maximal mouth opening. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the maximum bite force and the maximum mouth opening among group of children. Materials and methods: Four hundred children of both genders were included in this study, their age ranged from eight to ten years. Anterior and posterior (right, left) bite force were measured using bite force sensor. Maximum mouth opening was evaluated by electronic digital caliper. Data was statistically analyzed by descriptive statistics and by using paired t‑test and Chi‑square test. Results: The value of Maximum mouth opening was increased with the increasing of age in both genders; however, boys had higher value of Maximum Mouth opening than that of girls. A significant difference was found between genders among 9 years old children concerning the maximum bite force. A weak positive relation was observed between Maximum mouth opening and Maximum Bite Force among the boys in both of the age groups. Conclusions: In this study, a significant positive correlation was found between Maximum bite force and Maximum Mouth opening for boys, as they had higher mean value of maximum mouth opening and maximum bite force than girls.
Highlights
Teeth have an important role in the masticatory system, as they form the occlusal area where the food particles are fragmented, so that the grinding force will depend on the total occlusal area and on the number of teeth [1,2,3]
A weak positive relation was observed between Maximum mouth opening and Maximum Bite Force among the boys in both of the age groups
In this study, a significant positive correlation was found between Maximum bite force and Maximum
Summary
Teeth have an important role in the masticatory system, as they form the occlusal area where the food particles are fragmented, so that the grinding force will depend on the total occlusal area and on the number of teeth [1,2,3]. Chewing performance and bite force can influence the development of masticatory function. Maximum mouth opening which is the greater distance between the incisal edges of the upper and lower central incisors (at the midline when the mouth is open widely) [7]. It is a simple but important clinical parameter to conduct a thorough conventional oral examination and for the follow-up assessments of the diverse affections of the stomatognathic system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the maximum bite force and the maximum mouth opening among group of children
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
