Occlusal force analysis with T-Scan and Innobyte in adult patients: a prospective study

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Vertical skeletal patterns, including hyperdivergent, normodivergent, and hypodivergent, are crucial in craniofacial morphology.
• Occlusal force and its distribution are key factors in masticatory function and stability.
• Understanding the relationship between skeletal patterns and occlusal dynamics is vital for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate differences in total occlusal force among adult patients with varying vertical skeletal patterns.
• To evaluate the association between total occlusal force and the center of force (CoF) position.
• To correlate occlusal force characteristics with specific craniofacial skeletal types.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 96 adult Angle Class I malocclusion subjects categorized by SN-MP angle into hyperdivergent, normodivergent, and hypodivergent groups.
• Digital occlusal analysis using the T-Scan Novus system for occlusal contact time and CoF position.
• Maximum occlusal force recorded using the Innobyte device; CoF classified as anterior, centered, or posterior.

Main Results:

• Hypodivergent subjects demonstrated the highest total occlusal force (513.3 N) and occlusion time (7.9 s), while hyperdivergent subjects had the lowest (399.54 N, 6.93 s).
• The CoF was predominantly anterior in hypodivergent individuals (70.7%) and posterior in hyperdivergent individuals (76.41%).
• A significant positive association was found between total occlusal force and an anterior CoF position, with higher forces observed compared to a posterior CoF position (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Vertical skeletal patterns significantly influence total occlusal force and the center of force position.
• Hypodivergent patterns are associated with greater occlusal force and an anterior CoF, whereas hyperdivergent patterns correlate with reduced force and a posterior CoF.
• Increased occlusal force is linked to an anterior CoF and a longer duration to achieve maximum intercuspation, highlighting the interplay between skeletal morphology and occlusal function.