[Tooth tapping frequency of young and elderly subjects]

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biomechanics
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Tooth tapping frequency is a measure of masticatory muscle function.
• Age-related changes in mandibular movement and muscle fatigue are not fully understood.
• Maximal voluntary clenching and tapping can reveal functional differences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare tooth tapping frequency and mandibular movement patterns between young and elderly adults.
• To investigate the effects of sustained maximal tapping on these parameters.

Main Methods:

• Maximal frequent tooth tapping for 1 minute was performed by young (21-29 years) and elderly (61-67 years) subjects.
• Mandibular movements were recorded using a Mandibular Kinesiograph.
• Analysis included tapping frequency, cycle phases (closing, occluding, opening), and maximal velocities.

Main Results:

• Tapping frequency decreased significantly over the 1-minute duration for both groups.
• Elderly subjects had a lower maximal tapping frequency (2.7 Hz) compared to young subjects (4.6 Hz).
• The occluding phase prolonged with sustained tapping, while opening and closing phases remained unchanged; maximal opening and closing velocities showed no age difference.

Conclusions:

• Sustained maximal tooth tapping leads to decreased frequency and prolonged occluding phase, indicating muscle fatigue.
• Elderly individuals exhibit reduced maximal tooth tapping frequency, suggesting age-related decline in neuromuscular function.
• While maximal velocities are preserved, the reduced frequency in the elderly highlights functional differences in sustained tasks.