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Chew on this: is there a dominant side for chewing?
Journal of the Massachusetts Dental Society
|August 10, 2001
Summary
This study investigated if chewing side preference affects dental health. Researchers found no significant link between a dominant chewing side, hand dominance, or Decayed, Missing, and Filled (DMF) scores.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Human Physiology
- Oral Health Research
Background:
- Established knowledge of dominant hands, feet, and eyes.
- Uncertainty regarding a dominant chewing side and its potential link to handedness.
- Exploration of chewing side preference's influence on dental treatment needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if a dominant chewing side exists.
- To investigate if chewing side preference correlates with dental health indicators (DMF scores).
- To explore potential relationships between chewing side, handedness, and oral health.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 112 participants regarding chewing habits and handedness.
- Comprehensive oral and radiographic examinations to assess dental status.
- Quantification of Decayed, Missing, and Filled (DMF) surfaces on both sides of the mouth.
Main Results:
- Women generally reported a preferred chewing side, while men perceived chewing equally on both sides.
- No statistically significant correlation was found between hand dominance and chewing side preference.
- No significant correlation was identified between chewing side preference and DMF scores.
Conclusions:
- The study did not confirm the existence of a dominant chewing side in individuals.
- Chewing side preference does not appear to predict Decayed, Missing, and Filled (DMF) scores.
- Further research is needed to fully understand chewing side dominance and its oral health implications.