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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
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Measuring Maxillary Posterior Tooth Movement: A Model Assessment using Palatal and Dental Superimposition
Published on: February 23, 2024
Relationship between orthodontic anomalies and masticatory function in adults.
Papa Ibrahima Ngom1, Falou Diagne, Adjaratou Wakha Aïdara-Tamba
1Orthodontic Section, Department of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dentistry, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal. ibrahim@refer.sn
Summary
Subjects with significant occlusal anomalies exhibit impaired masticatory function, indicated by larger median particle size (MPS) after chewing. Improving occlusal relationships may enhance chewing efficiency and be an orthodontic treatment indication.
Area of Science:
- Dental Science
- Orthodontics
- Masticatory Science
Background:
- Normal mastication relies on coordinated actions of teeth, salivary glands, tongue, and muscles.
- Dysfunction in these components can lead to impaired masticatory function.
- Limited research exists on the impact of occlusal conditions on masticatory function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the extent of masticatory function impairment in individuals with occlusal anomalies.
- To correlate occlusal conditions with objective measures of masticatory performance.
Main Methods:
- Studied masticatory function in 102 untreated adults during chewing.
- Assessed orthodontic condition using the Index of Complexity, Outcome, and Need (ICON).
- Measured median particle size (MPS), broadness of particle distribution (BPD), and masticatory frequency (F) after 20, 30, and 40 chewing strokes.
Main Results:
- Significantly larger MPS observed in subjects with higher ICON scores (definite need for treatment) compared to those with lower scores.
- A similar trend for BPD was noted, though not statistically significant.
- No significant differences in masticatory frequency (F) were found between the groups.
Conclusions:
- Occlusal anomalies are associated with impaired chewing efficiency, as evidenced by reduced particle breakdown.
- Improving occlusal relationships may enhance masticatory function.
- This suggests that improving chewing function could be an additional indication for orthodontic treatment, beyond esthetics.
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