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

To clarify the presence or absence of differences in path pattern and movement during mastication between the habitual and non-habitual chewing sides.

Participants were 225 healthy adults with natural dentition. Mandibular movement while chewing gummy jelly on each side was recorded, and masticatory path pattern was classified into five types (one normal and four abnormal). The frequency of each pattern was measured and compared between chewing sides. The amount, rhythm, velocity, and stability of movement and masticatory performance were measured and compared between chewing sides.

A normal pattern was observed on the habitual chewing side in 84.4% of participants. There was a significant difference between chewing sides in masticatory path pattern (χ² = 35.971, P < 0.001). Values of parameters regarding the amount and velocity of movement and masticatory performance were significantly higher on the habitual chewing side. Values of parameters regarding rhythm and stability of movement were significantly lower on the habitual chewing side.

The present findings of functional differences between chewing sides in terms of path pattern and movement during mastication suggest that these factors should be analyzed on the habitual chewing side.