Morphological and masticatory performance variation of mouth behavior groups

Area of Science:

• Food science
• Human biology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Food texture preference influences consumer acceptance and purchasing decisions.
• Four mouth behavior (MB) groups (Chewers, Crunchers, Smooshers, Suckers) describe U.S. consumers.
• The relationship between MB groups and physical/performance metrics is currently unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between MB groups and morphological variations (body, head, oral cavity size).
• To examine the link between MB groups and masticatory performance (jaw gape, bite force).

Main Methods:

• Participants self-identified their MB group using the JBMB Mouth Behavior Typing Tool.
• Measurements included body, head, and oral cavity dimensions.
• Masticatory performance was assessed via maximum jaw gape and bite forces at incisors and molars.

Main Results:

• Univariate analyses showed associations between masticatory performance and body/oral cavity size.
• Multivariate analyses revealed no significant differences in size or performance across MB groups.
• Chewers and Crunchers did not differ in size, bite force, or maximum gape.

Conclusions:

• Mouth behavior groups are not significantly related to body size, oral cavity dimensions, or masticatory performance.
• Factors beyond physical attributes and jaw mechanics likely drive food texture preferences.
• Results for Smooshers and Suckers require cautious interpretation due to small sample sizes.