ACTIVATION OF FIXED LABIAL APPLIANCES, BRIEFLY AT INITIATION, MAY REDUCE MASTICATORY PERFORMANCE AND BITE FORCE

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Masticatory Science
• Dental Biomechanics

Background:

• Mastication is crucial for nutrient intake and overall health.
• Orthodontic treatment involves appliances that can alter oral structures and functions.
• The impact of orthodontic appliance activation on masticatory performance requires detailed investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze existing evidence on the effects of orthodontic appliance activation and installation on mastication.
• To quantify the degree to which orthodontic interventions impair masticatory function.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of relevant literature was conducted.
• Data from eligible studies were pooled using meta-analysis techniques.
• Studies focusing on the functional changes in mastication following orthodontic appliance placement were included.

Main Results:

• The activation and installation of orthodontic appliances were found to temporarily impair masticatory function.
• Pooled data indicated a statistically significant negative effect on masticatory performance metrics.
• The impairment was temporary, suggesting a recovery period post-intervention.

Conclusions:

• Orthodontic appliance therapy can lead to transient deficits in masticatory efficiency.
• Clinicians should be aware of these functional impairments and consider patient counseling.
• Further research may explore strategies to mitigate masticatory dysfunction during orthodontic treatment.