Masticatory function--a review of the literature. 1. The form of the masticatory cycle

Recently, the authors realized that an evaluation of the literature on mastication had never been undertaken, and it is hoped that this review presented in three parts, will be of value, not only to the dental clinician, but to other scientists working in associated fields. The first paper discusses the form of the masticatory cycle in the natural and artificial dentitions, including the controversial question of whether tooth contact occurs during function. The second paper reviews the literature concerning the speed of movement of the mandible, rate of chewing and the forces developed in chewing. The final paper describes masticatory efficiency and performance, the effect of food on masticatory function, and incorporates a summary of all these three papers.