The effects of changes in bite pressure and mucosal stimulation on the perception of mandibular position in man

In edentulous subjects, the mandibular position (MP) was altered by adjustable hydraulic jacks attached to the denture base. The MP which they began to perceive as high (HMP) was shifted toward the closed position when the bite pressure against the incisal region was increased. Thus the perception of MP may be modulated by information concerning the distribution of bite pressure. The HMP also shifted toward the closed position when the incisal palatal region of the denture-supporting mucosa was subjected to increased mechanical stimulation, the distribution of the bite force being constant. Therefore, mechanoreceptors in the mucosa may be involved in the perception of MP by providing precise information as to the distribution of bite pressure.