Assessment of the relationship between maximum occlusal force and median mandibular flexure in adults: A clinical trial study

Abstract

Aim: The narrowing of the mandible during opening and protrusion movements is defined as median mandibular flexure (MMF). MMF is caused by the attachment of mandibular muscles; therefore, it can be assumed that a greater amount of maximum occlusal force (MOF) may cause more flexion and could affect the survival of dental and implant restorations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate any relationship between MOF and MMF in a sample of adults. Settings and Design: In vivo – comparative study. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive, cross-sectional, nondirectional study, a sample of 90 volunteers were recruited (45 men and 45 women). MOF was measured by applying the strain gauge receptor to the first molar region, and MMF was measured by calculating the variation in the intermolar distance by a digital caliper with an accuracy of 0.01 mm using an impression and resulted in the stone cast during the maximum opening and closed-jaw positions. The body mass index (BMI) also was calculated. Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed using the SPSS software (version 23) inferential and descriptive statistics, linear regression, and Pearson correlation coefficient. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: There was no statistically significant relationship between MOF and MMF ( P = 0.78), but there was a significant association between MOF and BMI ( P < 0.001, r = 0.475) and gender. Conclusion: Although MOF and MMF are both important and effective factors in the success of prosthetic restorations, one cannot be expected by the other and both should be considered in the treatment plan separately.

Retrospective digital study of mandibular flexure in patients with long-span fixed restorations supported by natural teeth

“…In addition, the deviation values in the anterior measuring reference aid (canines) were less than those recorded in the posterior reference aids (molars). The results of this study showed no statistical difference in mandibular deviations between males and females, despite those other reports indicating more flexure in females [ 28 – 30 ].…”

Biomechanical Implications of Mandibular Flexion on Implant-Supported Full-Arch Rehabilitations: A Systematic Literature Review

“…However, no age difference was identified in the MMF evaluation between the two groups in the research by Gülsoy et al, where the average age of the edentulous individuals was 63 years and that of the dentate participants was 29 years ( p > 0.05) [ 75 ]. Even though the age–mandibular flexion correlation has not been proven in numerous articles with statistically significant results, the studies showing its interdependence can be explained by the connection between age-related consequences (lower bone density and smaller symphysis structure) and mandibular deformation [ 73 ].…”

“…Diagnostic models made from imprints obtained at various phases of the mandibular opening were frequently used to make in vivo extra-oral measurements, as were photos that monitored the movement of the mandibles [ 10 , 15 , 30 , 73 ].…”

Median mandibular flexure—the unique physiological phenomenon of the mandible and its clinical significance in implant restoration

“…According to the positive correlation between masticatory muscle strength and occlusal force ( van der Bilt et al, 2006 ; Ebadian et al, 2020 ) evaluated the relationship between mandibular occlusal force (MOF) and MMF in a cohort of adult participants, revealing that MOF and MMF are critical and effective factors in the success of prosthetic restorations. Nonetheless, ( Canabarro Sde and Shinkai, 2006 ), employed a distinct methodology in their study, which collected bilateral MOF measurements using transarch force transducers positioned in the first molar region.…”