Occlusal loading during biting from an experimental and simulation point of view

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Dental Materials Science
• Computational Biology

Background:

• Occlusal loading, generated by the masticatory system during clenching and biting, is fundamental for assessing the functional performance of prosthodontic and maxillofacial components.
• Evaluating occlusal forces is essential for understanding masticatory system function and the efficacy of dental restorations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current bite force measurement techniques and their limitations.
• To explore the application of computational modeling in predicting bite force.
• To present a simulation study addressing challenges in current computational dental models.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of bite force measurement methodologies.
• Analysis of computational modeling techniques for bite force prediction.
• Inclusion of a simulation study to highlight computational dental model challenges.

Main Results:

• Widespread techniques for 3D occlusal force measurement include strain gauges, piezoelectric sensors, and pressure sheets.
• Computational models offer an alternative or complementary method for estimating bite force.
• Three-dimensional force measurements significantly enhance the evaluation of masticatory functional performance.

Conclusions:

• Integrating computational modeling with 3D force measurement techniques offers a powerful approach.
• This combined methodology can substantially improve the evaluation of the masticatory system.
• Enhanced evaluation leads to improved functional performance assessment of prosthodontic components.