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Regulation of human jaw tapping force with visual biofeedback
H Suenaga1, R Yamashita, Y Yamabe
1Graduate School of Dentistry, Nagasaki University, and Department of Removable Prosthodontics, Nagasaki University School of Dentistry, Nagasaki, Japan. suen@dh.nagasaki-u.ac.jp
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
|May 3, 2000
Summary
This study reveals how healthy individuals regulate jaw tapping force. Force control involves adjusting jaw opening distance and movement phases, but not opening duration or cycle time.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Motor Control
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Understanding jaw tapping force control is crucial for diagnosing and treating orofacial disorders.
- Previous research has explored voluntary jaw movements, but specific force reproduction mechanisms require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the relationship between jaw tapping force reproduction and tapping strength.
- To investigate how varying jaw tapping forces influence the kinematic characteristics of the tapping movement curve.
Main Methods:
- Utilized visual biofeedback to guide participants.
- Nine healthy subjects were instructed to reproduce specific jaw tapping forces.
- Analyzed kinematic parameters of jaw movement, including opening/closing phases, contact duration, and velocities.
Main Results:
- Jaw tapping force regulation varied significantly based on the target force.
- Force control was achieved by altering jaw opening distance, tooth contact duration, closing phase duration, and maximum opening/closing velocities.
- Jaw opening phase duration and overall cycle time remained unaffected by force regulation.
Conclusions:
- Jaw tapping force reproduction is modulated through specific adjustments in jaw kinematics.
- The findings provide insights into the motor control strategies employed for precise force regulation in the jaw system.