A novel approach to bite force measurements in a porcine model in vivo

A novel device for a bite force measurement system in a porcine model is described. A single polyethylene layer was vacuum-formed into a splint, and a force sensor was fitted on to the splint occlusal surface and seated with a silicone layer. This design enabled the measurement of bite forces on selected teeth in a large animal model with either natural dentition or single implant crowns and could be used in assessing information on biomechanical adaptation of the bone-implant interface to masticatory loads. Preliminary recordings of force values obtained during mastication in the premolar region (200-560 N) and various limiting factors of the technical design are discussed.