Oral function in patients wearing fixed prosthesis on osseointegrated implants in the maxilla

Bite force, chewing efficiency and tactile sensibility were investigated in 21 subjects with OIB (Osseointegrated Implant bridges) in the maxilla or in both jaws. Recordings were performed before treatment, approximately 1 wk and finally 3-6 months after treatment. The bite force was recorded in the incisor, canine, and premolar areas and was tested at gentle biting, biting as when chewing, and maximal biting. In the chewing tests the chewing time, the chewing velocity, the time to swallowing, and the Ci (Chewing Efficiency Index) were calculated. The occlusal thickness perception was tested in the front with a 12.8 x 10(-3) mm thick plastic foil. The maximal bite force was more than doubled, the Ci improved about one index unit, and the occlusal thickness perception improved from on average 57.5 x 10(-3) mm to 18.7 x 10(-3) mm during the observation time. It is concluded that treatment with upper OIB has a very positive impact on oral function as reflected by improved bite force, chewing efficiency, and occlusal thickness perception.