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Effect of chewing training on masticatory efficiency
M G Tzakis1, S Kiliaridis, G E Carlsson
1Section of Prosthetic Dentistry, University of Athens, Greece.
Acta Odontologica Scandinavica
|December 1, 1989
Summary
Chewing training with hard gum did not improve masticatory efficiency or chewing cycle frequency. Intense chewing temporarily reduced efficiency and increased cycle frequency, likely due to muscle fatigue.
Area of Science:
- Oral physiology
- Biomechanics of mastication
Background:
- Masticatory efficiency is crucial for nutrient intake and digestion.
- Chewing training may enhance masticatory function, but its effects are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of a 28-day chewing training program on masticatory efficiency and chewing cycle frequency.
- To assess the effects of intense chewing on these parameters in trained and untrained individuals.
Main Methods:
- An experimental group (n=17) underwent 1 hour of daily chewing training with hard gum for 28 days.
- A control group (n=8) received no chewing training.
- Masticatory efficiency was measured using a sieve system.
- Chewing cycle frequency was determined from electromyography (EMG) recordings.
- Measurements were taken before and after a 30-minute intense chewing bout.
Main Results:
- Intense chewing significantly decreased masticatory efficiency and increased chewing cycle frequency in both groups, suggesting muscle fatigue.
- No significant differences in masticatory efficiency or chewing cycle frequency were observed between the trained and untrained groups after 28 days of training.
Conclusions:
- Short-term, intense chewing can lead to temporary reductions in masticatory performance due to fatigue.
- A 28-day chewing training regimen with hard gum did not yield significant improvements in masticatory efficiency or chewing cycle frequency.