Bite force measurement system using pressure-sensitive sheet and silicone impression material

Area of Science:

• Dental materials science
• Biomechanical engineering
• Occlusion research

Background:

• Occlusal examinations often involve materials that introduce measurement bias.
• Material thickness can significantly affect the accuracy of bite force and contact area assessments.
• Reducing this bias is crucial for reliable dental diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a method for reducing measurement bias in occlusal examinations.
• To investigate the impact of material thickness on bite force distribution and occlusal contact areas.
• To enhance the accuracy of data obtained from occlusal assessments.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a silicone impression material specifically for bite force measurement.
• Employed an experimental model simulating a simplified stomatognathic system.
• Analyzed the anterior-posterior distribution of bite forces and occlusal contact areas.

Main Results:

• The experimental model effectively reduced bias associated with material thickness.
• Bias toward the posterior arch in bite force distribution was significantly minimized.
• Accuracy in determining occlusal contact areas was improved by mitigating thickness-related bias.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method using silicone material and a simplified model successfully reduces bias in occlusal examinations.
• This approach enhances the reliability of bite force and occlusal contact measurements.
• Findings contribute to more accurate diagnostic and treatment planning in dentistry.