Relationship Between Dental Arch Dimensions and Bite Force: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to assess the possible association between dental arch measurements and average and maximum bite forces. Materials and Methods: A total of 41 individuals (mean age 22.4± 1.6 years) were recruited from dental students and patients seeking treatment at the dental hospital, College of Dentistry, Taibah University. Alginate impressions were taken, and study models were poured, scanned, and loaded into analysis software for measurements. The marked points on the scanned casts were identified, and eight linear measurements were taken. Bite force was recorded three times and the average and maximum bite forces of the right and left sides were obtained. The Mann-Whitney test was utilized to make comparisons between the right and left sides.Pearson correlation and multiple regression tests were used to detect the association between bite force and dental arch measurements. Results: There was no significant difference between the right and left sides’ bite forces, and no significant relationship between the maximal anterior and posterior bite forces and mandibular arch dimensions was found. However, a weak correlation between the maximum bite force and mandibular intercanine width, arch length on the left side, and arch depth was found. Furthermore, no significant correlation between maxillary arch measurements and bite force was found. However, a weak correlation between maximum bite force and maxillary first premolar arch width, second premolar arch width, and arch length on the left side was observed. Conclusion: No apparent significant correlation existsbetween the bite force and maxillary and mandibular dental arch dimensions. Keywords: Dental Arches, Arch Dimensions, Average bite force, Maximum bite force

Keywords

• dental arches, arch dimensions, average bite force, maximum bite force