Comparison of Jaw Muscle Activity, Masticatory Performance, and Salivation Across Three Chewing Patterns: A...

Area of Science:

• Mastication science
• Biomechanics of chewing
• Dental physiology

Background:

• The functional implications of simultaneous bilateral chewing remain unclear.
• Jaw muscle activity, masticatory efficiency, and saliva production vary across different chewing patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of unilateral, alternate unilateral, and bilateral chewing on jaw muscle activity, masticatory performance, and salivary production.
• To compare these chewing patterns in healthy young adults.

Main Methods:

• Surface electromyography recorded masseter and temporalis muscle activity.
• Masticatory performance was assessed via image analysis of particle size.
• Salivary volume and flow rate were measured gravimetrically.
• Repeated-measures ANOVA and Friedman tests analyzed data from 20 participants.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in masticatory performance or masseter muscle asymmetry were observed across chewing patterns.
• Alternate unilateral and bilateral chewing resulted in lower anterior temporalis muscle asymmetry.
• Chewing duration and salivary volume were significantly higher in alternate unilateral and bilateral chewing compared to strictly unilateral chewing.

Conclusions:

• Alternate unilateral and simultaneous bilateral chewing enhance jaw muscle symmetry and prolong chewing duration.
• These chewing strategies do not compromise masticatory performance.
• They represent viable alternatives for individuals with habitual unilateral chewing.