Path pattern and movement during mastication on habitual and non-habitual chewing sides

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biomechanics
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Mastication is a complex biomechanical process involving coordinated mandibular movements.
• Individual chewing preferences, or dominant chewing sides, are common but their functional implications are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and compare the masticatory path patterns and mandibular movement characteristics between the habitual and non-habitual chewing sides in healthy adults.
• To determine if significant functional differences exist in mastication based on chewing side preference.

Main Methods:

• 225 healthy adults with natural dentition participated in the study.
• Mandibular movements during gummy jelly mastication were recorded bilaterally.
• Masticatory path patterns were classified, and parameters like amount, rhythm, velocity, and stability of movement, along with masticatory performance, were quantified and compared between sides.

Main Results:

• A significantly higher prevalence of normal masticatory path patterns was observed on the habitual chewing side (84.4%).
• Significant differences were found in masticatory path patterns between chewing sides (χ² = 35.971, P < 0.001).
• Parameters related to movement amount, velocity, and masticatory performance were significantly greater on the habitual side, while rhythm and stability were lower.

Conclusions:

• Functional differences in masticatory path patterns and movement dynamics exist between habitual and non-habitual chewing sides.
• These findings underscore the importance of considering the habitual chewing side in the analysis of masticatory function.
• Further research should explore the clinical implications of these observed functional asymmetries.