Effect of hard gummy candy chewing on masticatory function.

Area of Science:

• Oral physiology
• Masticatory function research
• Dietary interventions for oral health

Background:

• Limited research exists on the impact of consuming hard foods on oral functions.
• Existing training methods for oral function, like occlusal force, are varied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of regularly consuming hard gummy candies on oral functions.
• To assess the efficacy of a novel, task-specific training method for masticatory improvement.

Main Methods:

• A cohort study involving a training group (n=14) and a control group (n=9).
• The training group consumed hard gummy candies three times weekly for three months.
• Oral functions including maximal occlusal force, masticatory performance, and tongue pressure were measured.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in masticatory performance (1 month), maximal occlusal force (2 months), and maximal tongue pressure (3 months).
• Chewing cycle time decreased significantly after two months.
• Most improvements were maintained one month post-training, except for masticatory performance.

Conclusions:

• Habitual consumption of hard gummy candies serves as an effective task-specific training for masticatory function.
• This method enhances overall oral function, including tongue pressure and occlusal force.