Sex-Related Differences in Maximum Bite Force, Occlusal Contact Area and Bite Pressure in Healthy Young Asian Adults

Maximum bite force (MBF), occlusal contact area (OCA) and bite pressure (BP) are important indicators of occlusal function; however, protocol-specific data describing their regional and single-tooth distribution in healthy young Asian adults remain limited.

To describe the distribution of MBF, OCA and BP in healthy young adults; to examine sex-related differences in these parameters; and to analyse the association between MBF and OCA.

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 101 healthy young adults, including 51 males (mean age: 25.71 ± 3.02 years) and 50 females (mean age: 24.49 ± 2.68 years). Maximum, regional, and single-tooth bite force, together with the corresponding OCA, were measured using the Teetester bite force analyser. BP was subsequently calculated as force per unit occlusal contact area. Data distribution was assessed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, and sex-related differences were evaluated using appropriate parametric or non-parametric tests. The association between MBF and OCA was examined using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, and a regression model was constructed to estimate MBF from OCA.

No significant sex differences were found in total MBF, OCA or BP values (p > 0.05). In both sexes, the highest values occurred at the first molars and the lowest at the lateral incisors. Regional analysis showed significantly greater posterior OCA and corresponding higher MBF in males (p < 0.05), whereas the anterior regions showed no significant sex differences (p > 0.05). A linear regression model was established: MBF (N) = -333.68 + 2.65 × OCA (mm²), with OCA explaining 68.0% of the variance in MBF (R² = 0.680, p < 0.001).

Total MBF, OCA, and BP were comparable between sexes in this cohort of healthy young adults; however, regional and single-tooth distribution patterns showed subtle sex-related differences. OCA was strongly associated with MBF and may serve as an important biomechanical indicator of occlusal function under the present measurement protocol.

These findings provide preliminary, protocol-specific normative estimates of MBF, OCA and BP distribution in healthy young Asian adults. They may offer comparative data for future studies on occlusal function, restorative treatment planning and intelligent occlusal analysis systems.

Clinical Trial Registration No.: ChiCTR2500097064.