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Review
. 2024 May 19;16(5):e60630.
doi: 10.7759/cureus.60630. eCollection 2024 May.

Unravelling the Complexities of Bite Force Determinants in Paediatric Patients: A Literature Review

Rutuja Patil  1 , Monika Khubchandani  2 , Harikishan Kanani  2 , Ramakrishna Yeluri  2 , Suwarna Dangore-Khasbage  3
Affiliations
Review

Unravelling the Complexities of Bite Force Determinants in Paediatric Patients: A Literature Review

Rutuja Patil et al. Cureus. .

Abstract

The amount of maximum voluntary bite force (MVBF) is determined by the combined action of the jaw elevator muscles, which are altered jaw biomechanics and reflex processes. Bite force (BF) measurements can yield valuable information on the activity and function of the jaw muscles. The accuracy of biting force measurements depends on several variables, including age, gender, malocclusion, dental caries, dental prostheses and temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This information is essential for evaluating the development and function of the masticatory system, identifying potential abnormalities or impairments and guiding appropriate treatment interventions for paediatric patients. The aim of this article is to review the literature on the factors affecting bite force and the importance of these factors in assessing dental development and guiding interventions for paediatric patients with bite force-related issues. Additionally, establishing normative values for bite force in different age groups can aid in monitoring growth and detecting any deviations from expected patterns. Measuring bite force in paediatric patients is significant in comprehensive oral health assessment and management.

Keywords: bite force; maximum voluntary bite force; muscle of mastication; paediatric preventive dentistry; primary dentition; review article.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Graph depicting bite force versus age
Figure 2
Figure 2. Graph depicting bite force versus gender
Figure 3
Figure 3. Graph depicting craniofacial morphology versus bite force
Figure 4
Figure 4. Graph depicting malocclusion versus bite force
Figure 5
Figure 5. Graph depicting temporomandibular joint versus bite force
Figure 6
Figure 6. Graph depicting molar relationship versus bite force
Figure 7
Figure 7. Graph depicting bite force versus prosthesis
Figure 8
Figure 8. Graph depicting mouth opening in millimetres versus bite force
Figure 9
Figure 9. Graph depicting measurements versus bite force
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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