Effects of gum chewing exercise on maximum bite force according to facial morphology

Abstract

Development of the masticatory system is influenced by functional needs. Furthermore, masticatory exercise can improve masticatory function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential effect of the gum chewing exercise on the maximum bite force (MBF) in adult subjects with different facial morphologies. MBF was measured by a portable occlusal force gauge and lateral cephalogram was used for evaluation of craniofacial morphology in 19 individuals (7 males and 12 females) with a mean age of 25.4 years (SD ± 4.3). The volunteers underwent gum chewing exercise for 5 min twice a day for 4 weeks. MBF was measured before (T1) and after the 4‐week exercise (T2). The facial morphology of the subjects was classified into the brachy (n = 7), mesio (n = 7), and dolicho (n = 5) facial types. In all three groups, exercise was associated with a significant increase in MBF, though the percent increase was highest in the dolicho facial type. We conclude that gum chewing exercise can improve masticatory performance, especially in individuals with dolicho facial morphology.

Effects of functional training after orthognathic surgery on masticatory function in patients with mandibular prognathism

“…It has been reported that gum chewing exercise enhance bite force and masticatory function. 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 Kiliaridis et al. 6 reported that 4-week training with hard chewing gum influenced the functional capacity of the masticatory muscles and increased their strength.…”

“…In our previous study, the maximum bite force of healthy subjects with normal occlusion increased from 468 N to 574 N after 4-week gum chewing exercise. 11 Furthermore, Kato et al. 12 reported that masticatory exercise with gum chewing of 5 min twice a day for 90 days starting at 6 months after surgery improved masticatory efficiency and maximal occlusal force in patients with jaw deformities.…”

“…To improve masticatory function, the gum chewing exercise was used in several studies. 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 Our previous study showed 4-week gum chewing exercise increased the bite force of healthy subjects. 11 Moreover, Kato et al.…”

“… 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 Our previous study showed 4-week gum chewing exercise increased the bite force of healthy subjects. 11 Moreover, Kato et al. 12 reported improvement of masticatory efficiency and maximal occlusal force following masticatory exercise with gum chewing in patients with jaw deformities.…”

Effects of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Synchronized with Chewing Exercises on Bite Force and Masseter Muscle Thickness in Community-Dwelling Older Adults in South Korea: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…As a standard part of the method, resistance training induces myophysiological changes, such as activation and thickness gain of muscles [ 9 , 10 , 11 ]. Several studies have reported that chewing exercises improve motor function during chewing and increase the maximum occlusal force in children, older adults, and patients with neurological disorders [ 2 , 12 , 13 ]. It is hypothesized that the increased activation of the masticatory muscles through resistance training contributes positively to the physiological changes, such as increased muscle thickness and to the maximum occlusal force of the masseter muscle as a result of its repeated use.…”