Masticatory parameters of children with and without clinically diagnosed caries in permanent dentition

Authors

  • MS Kaya Marmara University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Istanbul
  • S Akyuz Marmara University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Istanbul
  • B Guclu Bogazici University, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Istanbul
  • D Diracoglu Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Istanbul
  • A Yarat Marmara University, Faculty of Dentistry Department of Biochemistry, Istanbul

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23804/ejpd.2017.18.02.06

Keywords:

Dental caries, Masticatory performance, Bite force

Abstract

AIM: Mastication turns food into a bolus and prepares it for chemical digestion. Any condition affecting tooth structure and position may have an impact on mastication. The aim of this study is to compare masticatory performance (MP) and maximum bite force (MBF) between children with and without clinically visible caries in permanent first molars. METHODS: The study was conducted with 50 children in good general condition aged 12-14 years (25 girls, 25 boys) with no orthodontic/skeletal anomalies and no missing teeth due to dental trauma or extraction. Maximum bite force was measured bilaterally using strain gauge sensors. Masticatory performance was evaluated by silicone tablet comminution test.