Occlusal Contact Area Research Articles

Influence of denture treatment on brain function activity

Summary The objective of the present study was to clarify whether the treatment of complete dentures and the use of partial dentures influence brain function activity as determined by electroencephalograms (EEG). Eighteen complete and twenty partial denture wearers participated in the study. In order to evaluate denture function, the occlusal contact area and occlusal force were measured using a Dental Prescale Occluzer ® . To evaluate brain function activity, EEG data obtained employing ESA-pro were analyzed using DIMENSION. The occlusal contact area significantly increased after complete denture treatment in all 18 subjects and significantly increased with wearing partial dentures in all 20 subjects. The occlusal force of complete and partial denture subjects significantly increased. An increase in brain function activity was noted in 14 of the 18 complete denture wearers, and after gum chewing with dentures in the 20 partial denture wearers. In this study, it was revealed that brain function activity was enhanced by the improvement of complete dentures, and by wearing partial dentures. Not only denture function improvement but also brain functional activation was achieved in elderly denture wearers at risk of brain activity deterioration.

Mastication, EMG Activity and Occlusal Contact Area in Subjects with Different Facial Types

Dentofacial morphology may affect orofacial functions, therefore the aim of the current study was to evaluate the influence of craniofacial morphology on masticatory function, occlusal contact area (OCA), and masticatory muscles activity. Seventy-eight (78) subjects were divided into three groups according to vertical facial pattern: 1. mesofacial; 2. brachyfacial; and 3. dolichofacial. Artificial material and the sieving method were used to access masticatory efficiency (ME). OCA was determined by registration of posterior teeth. Electromyographic (EMG) activity of the masseter and anterior temporal (AT) muscles was accessed bilaterally at rest and at maximal vertical clenching (MVC). ME (%) was significantly higher in brachyfacial and lower in dolichofacial subjects. Brachyfacials presented the highest OCA (mm2) followed by meso and dolichofacial subjects. The EMG of the masseter and AT at rest and at MVC showed that dolichofacial subjects presented the lowest activity values, while brachyfacial subjects presented significantly higher measurements. Craniofacial morphology affected masticatory function, OCA, and EMG activity of the masticatory muscles.

Effects of Occlusal Contact and Its Area on Gravity Fluctuation

To examine changes in gravity fluctuation caused by experimentally altering the area of occlusal contact. Subjects consisted of 15 adult Japanese males with normal stomatognathic function, no missing teeth except for the third molars, and equivalent occlusal contact in the anterior and bilateral posterior regions. Silicon biteplates fabricated for each subject to evaluate gravity fluctuation in relation to changes in occlusal contact area were as follows: RP(-)-OC(+) (entire occlusal surface covered in centric occlusion); RP(+)-OC(+) (entire occlusal surface covered with bite slightly raised); Ant or Pos/RP(+)-OC(+) (anterior or posterior region selectively covered); and RP(+)-OC(-) (only retromolar pads covered, no occlusal coverage). No significant differences in gravity fluctuation were noted between subjects wearing biteplates covering the entire occlusal surface. Subjects wearing biteplates with no occlusal contact showed greater gravity fluctuation than those with occlusal contact. In addition, gravity fluctuation for the Ant/RP(+)-OC(+) group (no occlusal contact in the posterior region) was greater than for RP(+)-OC(+) and Pos/RP(+)-OC(+). However, groups with unilateral occlusal contact in the posterior region exhibited large right and left sway amplitude. These results suggest that occlusal contact, especially posterior occlusal contact, affects gravity fluctuation, and that appropriate occlusion attained by maintaining even occlusal contact in the posterior region is crucial for gravity fluctuation.

Three-year clinical evaluation of two ceramic crown systems: A preliminary study

The clinical performance and failure mechanisms of recently introduced ceramic crown systems used to restore posterior teeth have not been adequately examined. The purpose of this prospective clinical study was to evaluate and compare the clinical performance of 2 new ceramic crown systems with that of metal ceramic crowns using modified United States Public Health Services (USPHS) criteria. Ninety posterior teeth requiring crown restorations in 48 patients were randomized into 3 equal groups (n=30) for which different crown systems were used: an experimental hot-pressed glass ceramic based on a modified lithium disilicate ceramic (IPS e.max Press), an alumina-coping-based ceramic (Procera AllCeram), and a metal ceramic (Simidur S 2 veneered with IPS Classic Porcelain). The crowns were assessed over 3 years using the modified USPHS criteria. Crowns that developed visible cracks were sectioned and removed, and the surfaces were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric statistical test, followed by the Mann-Whitney test with Bonferroni correction (alpha=.05). USPHS evaluation showed that the IPS e.max Press and metal ceramic crowns experienced fewer clinical changes than Procera AllCeram. Visible roughness, wear, and deformity were noticed in occlusal contact areas of Procera AllCeram crowns. SEM images showed well defined wear facets in both ceramic crown systems. Kruskal-Wallis tests showed a significant difference (P<.05) in Alpha scores among the 3 crown systems. Mann-Whitney tests showed significant differences among groups. IPS e.max Press crowns demonstrated clinical behavior comparable to Procera AllCeram and metal ceramic crowns, but the wear resistance of this crown type was superior to the Procera AllCeram crowns, according to modified USPHS criteria.

Changes in occlusal force and occlusal contact area after orthodontic treatment

고정식 교정장치를 이용한 교정치료 후 교합의 기능적 변화를 평가하기 위해, 교합력 및 교합접촉면적을 측정하여 단기적인 변화 양상을 확인하고 소구치 발치 여부에 따른 차이를 파악하였다. 고정식 교정장치로 치료를 종료한 18세 에서40세 사이의 성인을 남자군과 여자군으로 분류하고, 각각의 군을 4개의 소구치를 발...

Functional aspects of treatment with implant‐supported single crowns: a quality control study in subjects with tooth agenesis

No comprehensive patient-centered and clinical evaluations of the functional effect of treatment with implant-supported single crowns (ISSC) have been reported previously. To investigate whether and how treatment with ISSC affects masticatory function and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) in subjects with tooth agenesis. In nine females and nine males (32 + or - 10 years) with agenesis treated with one to four ISSC (68% in the premolar region), the treatment effect and masticatory function were assessed. The evaluation was performed first after implant placement shortly before crown cementation, and again 1 month after cementation. It consisted of questionnaires [including Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-49)] and functional examination with plastic strips, the Dental Prescale Film and the Occluzer system, Xylitol color-changeable gum and slices of Granny Smith apple. The patients' satisfaction with treatment was high and they experienced a significant overall improvement in their OHRQoL (on average 13% reduction in the total OHIP scores). The cementation of the crowns was associated with a significant increase in the number of near occlusal tooth contacts, contact area, bite force, and masticatory ability and performance. Correspondingly, there was a significant, positive correlation between the number of tooth contacts and (1) occlusal contact area, (2) bite force, and (3) masticatory performance. Treatment with ISSCs in subjects with tooth agenesis significantly increased masticatory function subjectively and clinically as well as OHRQoL. However, as the functional parameters before replacement of the teeth corresponded to values in subjects with complete dentitions, the functional importance of the increase may be questioned.

The effect of impression volume and double-arch trays on the registration of maximum intercuspation

The type of double-arch trays used may affect occlusion. The purpose of this study was to determine what effect, if any, double-arch tray design and impression material volume had on the registration of maximum intercuspation (MI). Quadrant impressions were made on articulated fracture-resistant dental casts mounted in maximum intercuspation occlusion. Three types of sideless double-arch impression trays were used: First Bite with nylon webbing, Sultan's 3-Way with double crosshatch webbing, and Premium's 3-in-1 Tray with single crosshatch webbing. Vinyl polysiloxane impression material (Aquasil Ultra Rigid Fast Set) was distributed at 2 different volumes (5.4 ml and 8.3 ml), and 60 impressions were made (n=10). A weight of 1.2 kg was placed on the upper arm of an Artex articulator, ensuring complete closure. The impressions were allowed to polymerize for 5 minutes. After polymerization, specimens were placed on a light box, and a camera set at a fixed distance was used to capture the light transmission that was projected through the impression material. The camera transferred the information to an image analysis program (ImageJ). This system allowed the different amounts of light projected through the impression to be translated into a gray scale value (GSV), which was assigned a thickness value, in millimeters, of a specified occlusal contact area. To assess reliability of the experimental design, 10 control impressions were made by directly applying impression material onto the typodont. These were analyzed in the same manner as the impressions made with trays. A 2-way ANOVA comparing volume by tray type was used (alpha=.05). This was followed by a Tukey HSD test. There was no main effect for volume of impression material (P=.71). Tray type was significantly different (P<.001). Impressions made with Sultan trays were significantly less accurate than impressions made with First Bite or Premium impression trays. The Premium tray type had the highest mean (SD) GSV, 179.8 (8.1), significantly higher than First Bite (164.7 (19.8); P<.001) or Sultan (82.8 (7.4); P<.001) trays. This in vitro study demonstrated that certain trays hinder closure into MI, which may negatively affect the accuracy of record making.

Daily chewing gum exercise for stabilizing the vertical occlusion

We investigated the effects of a chewing gum exercise program on occlusal conditions and evaluated compliance of subjects. Thirty-five healthy adult volunteers (26 males and nine females) were asked to chew gum for 10-15 min before or after three meals daily for four weeks. Occlusal conditions were recorded as occlusal parameters, such as occlusal contact area, occlusal contact force, and pressure using dental prescale films. These parameters were evaluated by an Occluzer before the exercise period commenced, after four weeks of exercise, and then one month after the end of the exercise period. These parameters were statistically compared using one-way ANOVA. We found that: (i) after four weeks of exercise, anterior and posterior occlusal contact areas and forces were significantly (P < 0.05) increased and the increments were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the anterior occlusal contact area and force than in the posterior occlusal contact area and force, (ii) the anteroposterior ratio of occlusal contact area and force increased, but not markedly, (iii) increased parameters had significantly (P < 0.05) decreased within one month after the end of the four-week exercise period, (iv) most participants did not complain for discomfort or stress during the exercise. The chewing gum exercise program could increase occlusal contact area and force and also move the anteroposterior occlusal balance forward. Patient compliance with the exercise is likely high enough to keep them exercising.

Masticatory dysfunction in patients with myotonic dystrophy (type 1): a 5‐year follow‐up

Eight patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1, DM1 (age range 45-63 years) were followed for a period of 5 years. Two sets of data analyzing masticatory function and activities of daily living (ADL) were obtained at baseline and at 5 years. The results from both time points were compared. The number of food items considered easy to chew, maximum bite force, occlusal contact area, number of teeth, and ADLs were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) at the second assessment when compared to the first. During the intervening 5 years, six of the eight patients adopted a soft diet. These results suggest deterioration in ADLs and masticatory function of patients with DM1. Continuous evaluation of the feeding ability and the type of diet are necessary for patients with DM1.

Assessment of ramus, condyle, masseter muscle, and occlusal force before and after sagittal split ramus osteotomy in patients with mandibular prognathism

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the morphologies of the masseter muscle and the ramus and occlusal force before and after sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) in patients with mandibular prognathism. The study group consisted of 26 patients with mandibular prognathism. All patients underwent bilateral SSRO as well as 3-dimensional computed tomography on which the masseter muscle, ramus, and condyle were measured preoperatively and at 1 year postoperation. Occlusal force and contact area were also recorded with pressure-sensitive sheets. In the cross-sectional area of the masseter muscle, there were no significant differences between the pre- and postoperative status. However, postoperative ramus width and area were significantly larger than preoperative values (P < .0001). Postoperative right condylar area was significantly larger than the preoperative value (P = .0120). Occlusal force and contact area 1 year after surgery were significantly larger than the preoperative values (P = .0016, P = .0190). This study suggested that the masseter muscle area did not significantly differ from preoperative status 1 year after SSRO, although occlusal force, contact area, and ramus area and width increased significantly 1 year after SSRO.

Three-year randomised clinical trial to evaluate the clinical performance, quantitative and qualitative wear patterns of hybrid composite restorations

The aim of the study was to compare the clinical performance, quantitative and qualitative wear patterns of conventional hybrid (Tetric Ceram), micro-filled hybrid (Gradia Direct Posterior) and nano-hybrid (Tetric EvoCeram, TEC) posterior composite restorations in a 3-year randomised clinical trial. Sixteen Tetric Ceram, 17 TEC and 16 Gradia Direct Posterior restorations were placed in human molars and evaluated at baseline, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months of clinical service according to US Public Health Service criteria. The gypsum replicas at each recall were used for 3D laser scanning to quantify wear, and the epoxy resin replicas were observed under scanning electron microscope to study the qualitative wear patterns. After 3 years of clinical service, the three hybrid restorative materials performed clinically well in posterior cavities. Within the observation period, the nano-hybrid and micro-hybrid restorations evolved better in polishability with improved surface gloss retention than the conventional hybrid counterpart. The three hybrid composites showed enamel-like vertical wear and cavity-size dependant volume loss magnitude. Qualitatively, while the micro-filled and nano-hybrid composite restorations exhibited signs of fatigue similar to the conventional hybrid composite restorations at heavy occlusal contact area, their light occlusal contact areas showed less surface pitting after 3 years of clinical service.

Relation of dietary preference to bite force and occlusal contact area in Japanese children

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of dietary preference to bite force and occlusal contact area in Japanese elementary school children. A total of 348 children, aged 7-12 years, from two public elementary schools located in Okayama Prefecture, Japan, participated in the study. Clinical examination included decayed, missing and filled teeth (dmft and DMFT), and total numbers of deciduous and permanent teeth. Bite force and occlusal contact area were measured using a pressure-detecting sheet. Dietary preference was assessed using a questionnaire in which the answers were given in like/dislike form. Mann-Whitney U-test and multiple logistic regression analysis were applied to analyse the data. In multiple logistic regression analysis after adjustment for age, gender and total number of teeth present, children who liked cabbage and celery showed significantly higher bite force (P = 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) than those who disliked these. Children who liked cabbage and celery also showed higher occlusal contact area (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) than those who disliked these. The Japanese elementary school children who liked hard foods such as cabbage and celery showed higher bite force and higher occlusal contact area than those who disliked these foods. A positive attitude towards harder food items might contribute to healthy development of the masticatory apparatus.

Three-year randomized clinical trial to evaluate the clinical performance and wear of a nanocomposite versus a hybrid composite

Objectives Compare the 3-year clinical performance (wear as an additional parameter) of a nanocomposite and a microhybrid composite, versus ADA guidelines (2001) using direct (clinical/USPHS) and indirect (quantitative/3D laser scan and qualitative/SEM) methods, in parallel. Materials and methods 18 Filtek Supreme and 17 Z100 restorations were placed in molars (split mouth model) and bonded with Single bond Adhesive. Restorations were evaluated at baseline and 6-, 12-, 24-, 36-months of clinical service according to modified USPHS criteria. The gypsum replicas at each recall were used for 3D-Pro-laser scanning to quantify wear and the epoxy resin replicas were observed under SEM to study the qualitative wear patterns. Repaired restorations were considered functionally present and not failed. Restorations were judged as failed, whenever completely replaced or when scored Delta due to material related factors impairing clinical function. Results Clinically acceptable Functionally present Wear (μm ± SD) Failures ADA 3y ≥90% – ≤100 ≤10% Z100 3y 100% (95%) ‡ 5% 64 ± 26 0% (5%) ‡ FS 3y 100% (95%) ‡ 5% 75 ± 27 0% (5%) ‡ Values with double dagger symbol include functionally present restorations. Filtek Supreme appeared better polishable than Z100 ( p = 0.0078; McNemar test). However, there were no significant differences between groups for other criteria including wear ( p > 0.05; Mann–Whitney U test). Qualitatively, fatigue wear at heavy occlusal contact areas (OCA), pitting at light OCA and scratches/striations along the food escape pathways were evident in almost all worn surfaces under SEM. Conclusions At 3 years, nanocomposite and microhybrid composite meet ADA Acceptance Guidelines (2001) for tooth-colored restorative materials for posterior teeth.

Editor's Summary and Q&A: Gastroesophageal reflux symptoms in adults with skeletal Class III malocclusion examined by questionnaires

Introduction Patients with masticatory dysfunction have a higher incidence of gastrointestinal disorders including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Masticatory function is significantly lower in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion than in those with normal occlusion. However, GERD symptoms in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion are still unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine GERD symptoms and masticatory functions in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion. Methods Nineteen adult patients with severe skeletal Class III malocclusion (Class III group) and 20 adults with normal occlusion (control group) participated in this study. The results of the Carlsson-Dent self-administered questionnaire (QUEST) and the frequency scale for the symptoms of GERD (FSSG) were compared between the 2 groups, along with occlusal contact area, maximal voluntary bite force, and salivary flow rate. Results The QUEST and FSSG scores were significantly higher in the Class III group. Occlusal contact area and maximal voluntary bite force were significantly smaller in the Class III group. There was no significant difference in the salivary flow rates between the groups. Conclusions GERD symptoms were observed more often in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion than in normal subjects as determined by the questionnaires. Patients with masticatory dysfunction have a higher incidence of gastrointestinal disorders including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Masticatory function is significantly lower in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion than in those with normal occlusion. However, GERD symptoms in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion are still unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine GERD symptoms and masticatory functions in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion. Nineteen adult patients with severe skeletal Class III malocclusion (Class III group) and 20 adults with normal occlusion (control group) participated in this study. The results of the Carlsson-Dent self-administered questionnaire (QUEST) and the frequency scale for the symptoms of GERD (FSSG) were compared between the 2 groups, along with occlusal contact area, maximal voluntary bite force, and salivary flow rate. The QUEST and FSSG scores were significantly higher in the Class III group. Occlusal contact area and maximal voluntary bite force were significantly smaller in the Class III group. There was no significant difference in the salivary flow rates between the groups. GERD symptoms were observed more often in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion than in normal subjects as determined by the questionnaires.

Gastroesophageal reflux symptoms in adults with skeletal Class III malocclusion examined by questionnaires

Patients with masticatory dysfunction have a higher incidence of gastrointestinal disorders including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Masticatory function is significantly lower in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion than in those with normal occlusion. However, GERD symptoms in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion are still unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine GERD symptoms and masticatory functions in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion. Nineteen adult patients with severe skeletal Class III malocclusion (Class III group) and 20 adults with normal occlusion (control group) participated in this study. The results of the Carlsson-Dent self-administered questionnaire (QUEST) and the frequency scale for the symptoms of GERD (FSSG) were compared between the 2 groups, along with occlusal contact area, maximal voluntary bite force, and salivary flow rate. The QUEST and FSSG scores were significantly higher in the Class III group. Occlusal contact area and maximal voluntary bite force were significantly smaller in the Class III group. There was no significant difference in the salivary flow rates between the groups. GERD symptoms were observed more often in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion than in normal subjects as determined by the questionnaires.

Factors affecting masticatory performance of Japanese children

The aim of this study was to analyse occlusal parameters and body variables to examine the factors accounting for masticatory performance of Japanese children in relation to adults. Sixty-six children and 24 adults chewed three pieces of a colour-changeable chewing gum, separately, for 30 s, 60 s, and 90 s. The colour change was measured at 30 s using L* a* b* colour space system. Biting force, occlusal contact areas, and occlusal pressure were recorded by Dental Prescale. Number of strokes, and the height and weight of the subjects were included in the statistical analysis. Within each sample, Student's t-test revealed significant differences among a* values at the three chewing times in which the value of a* (indicator of red) increased as the length of chewing time increased (P < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis showed that the rate of mandibular movement in preschool children has a significant impact on masticatory performance (P < 0.05). In schoolchildren, the rate of mandibular movement, biting force, and body weight were significant factors (P < 0.05). In adults, occlusal contact area, biting force, and the rate of mandibular movement were the significant factors (P < 0.05). Factors affecting masticatory performance differ according to the developmental stage of the individual.

Effect of 2 jaw exercises on occlusal function in patients with obstructive sleep apnea during oral appliance therapy: A randomized controlled trial

The aim of this study was to compare the effects on objective occlusal function of 2 types of jaw exercises during oral appliance therapy in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Sixteen consecutive subjects with snoring or OSA undergoing oral appliance therapy were included in this study; the results were based on 10 patients who completed it. The patients were randomized to start with either a jig exercise or stretching movements for 1 month; after 1 month without exercise, they crossed over to the other exercise for 1 month. An occlusal diagnostic system that consisted of a pressure-sensitive sheet and an image scanner was used to evaluate occlusal contact area and bite force. Both exercises produced significant increases in occlusal contact area and bite force in the morning compared with the period of no exercise. At night, the molar region had significant improvements in occlusal contact area and bite force only during stretching movements. We found no significant differences between the 2 exercises, but stretching movements tended to be more effective in the molar region, whereas the jig exercise tended to be more effective in the anterior region. Jaw exercises might help relieve masticatory muscle stiffness and accelerate the repositioning of the mandible to the normal position, in addition to inhibiting or minimizing the occlusal functional changes in predisposed patients.

Editor's Summary, Q & A, Reviewer's Critique: Effect of 2 jaw exercises on occlusal function in patients with obstructive sleep apnea during oral appliance therapy: A randomized controlled trial

Introduction The aim of this study was to compare the effects on objective occlusal function of 2 types of jaw exercises during oral appliance therapy in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Methods Sixteen consecutive subjects with snoring or OSA undergoing oral appliance therapy were included in this study; the results were based on 10 patients who completed it. The patients were randomized to start with either a jig exercise or stretching movements for 1 month; after 1 month without exercise, they crossed over to the other exercise for 1 month. An occlusal diagnostic system that consisted of a pressure-sensitive sheet and an image scanner was used to evaluate occlusal contact area and bite force. Results Both exercises produced significant increases in occlusal contact area and bite force in the morning compared with the period of no exercise. At night, the molar region had significant improvements in occlusal contact area and bite force only during stretching movements. We found no significant differences between the 2 exercises, but stretching movements tended to be more effective in the molar region, whereas the jig exercise tended to be more effective in the anterior region. Conclusions Jaw exercises might help relieve masticatory muscle stiffness and accelerate the repositioning of the mandible to the normal position, in addition to inhibiting or minimizing the occlusal functional changes in predisposed patients.

Relationship between sleeping occlusal contact patterns and temporomandibular disorders in the adult Japanese population

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether there is any association between occlusal contact patterns during sleep bruxism and signs of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The association of occlusion pattern and symptoms of TMD was assessed in 240 Japanese participants. Participants completed a questionnaire to report pain and other symptoms regarding TMD and their self-awareness of sleep bruxism. A simple device (BruxChecker) custom fitted to each participant was applied to evaluate the occlusal contact pattern during sleep. Condylograph was also applied to examine the function of temporomandibular joint (TMJ). RESULTS: Participants with a major increment in the mediotrusive side occlusal contact areas on BruxChecker reported significant impact on the high prevalence of TMD signs and self-awareness of sleep bruxism. CONCLUSION: The positive relationship between a certain classification of occlusal grinding during sleep bruxism and signs of TMD constitutes a key point to consider the possible role of occlusal factors during sleeping as risk indicators in the genesis of TMD.

The relationship between body balance and occlusal balance of Japanese children during the deciduous dentition period

The relationship between children's deciduous dentition occlusal balance and body's gravity center movement was studied. The participants of this study were 128 children with Hellman's Dental Age IIA stage at a nursery school. The distance and the area of gravity center movement (GCM) when the participants had their eyes-opened and eyes-closed were measured with automatic posture analytical devices. Occlusal abilities including occlusal contact area, average pressure, maximum occlusal pressure, occlusal force and occlusal balance were measured with the Dental Prescale® system. Analysis of occlusal balance was determined by separating the middle group (|x|≤5mm) from the deflection group (|x|>5 mm) based on the position of occlusal balance center. A significant difference was found between the occlusal balance of the middle group (n=96) and the occlusal balance of the deflection group (n=32) in the distance and area of gravity center movement with eyes-opened and closed. The distance and area of gravity center movement of the middle group was less than that of the deflection group. Analysis of body balance was determined by the good balance group and bad balance group based on the GCM area with eyes-closed. A difference was found between the good balance group and the bad balance group in the occlusal contact area and occlusal force. The occlusal contact area and occlusal force of good balance group were higher than the bad balance group. Body and occlusal balance was observed to have some interactive influence during Hellman's Dental Age IIA period. The influence of occlusal balance on body balance is much stronger and obvious than the influence of body balance over occlusal balance. Occlusal balance can influence on the body balance most of the time while body balance can sometimes influence on the occlusal balance.