Occlusal force and its distribution in the position of maximum intercuspation in individual normal occlusion: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

To investigate the occlusal force in the position of maximum intercuspation in the population with individual normal occlusion using a new occlusal analyzing equipment (TeeTester). Twenty-nine volunteers aged from 21 to 32 years were recruited. Occlusal analysis was performed using TeeTester. An arch model of each subject was retrieved in order to measure the tooth width and to calculate the force applied on each tooth. The occlusal force in the position of maximum intercuspation was (900 ± 361) N (range: 335-1 727 N). The maximum occlusal force was correlated with the contacting area. The mean value of occlusal force on the molars ranged from 107 to 156 N, with the mean value on the first molar greater than that on the second molar within the same quadrant. The mean value of occlusal force ranged from 39 to 66 N on the premolars, and from 11 to 33 N on the front teeth. There is a great variation of occlusal force in maximum intercuspation in individual normal occlusion. TeeTester occlusal analyzing system provides absolute occlusal force in kilogram and can be cowerted to N, which may assist clinical examination in patients.