Maximum bite force following unilateral implant-supported prosthetic treatment: within-subject comparison to opposite...

Bite force is a significant component of chewing and masticatory function. The literature lacks studies that compare bite force values of implant-supported fixed bridges to natural dentition within same subjects. The objective of the study was to assess maximum occlusal bite force (MBF) among patients with an implant-supported fixed prosthesis and compare it to their opposite dentate side and also to determine the effect of gender, age and Body Mass Index (BMI) on maximum occlusal bite force. Forty patients (20 males and 20 females, mean age = 42.7 ± 9.6 years) with an implant-supported fixed prosthetic rehabilitation on one side and dentate on the other side were recruited into this study. Participants' MBF were measured bilaterally at the first molar region using a digital hydraulic occlusal force gauge (GM10). The measurements were repeated three times (with 45 s intervals between times) for each side, and the highest value of the bite force (MBF) was recorded for each side. The mean MBF was 577.9 N at the implant-supported prosthesis side and 595.1 N at the dentate side. The average MBF was higher at the dentulous side (P < 0.05). Maximum occlusal bite force was higher in males and participants with higher weight and height. However, BMI was not significantly related to MBF values. Maximum occlusal bite force values at the dentate side were slightly (3%) but significantly higher than MBF at implant-supported prosthesis side. Males, taller patients and patients with higher weights had higher MBF values. Body mass index was not significantly related to MBF values.