A Feedback Method to Determine the Three-dimensional Bite-force Capabilities of the Human Masticatory System

Abstract

A feedback procedure is described that enables a subject to exert bite forces in certain specified directions during static contraction of the human jaw muscles. The output of a three-dimensional transducer is fed to a computer. The magnitude and direction of the resultant force are computed and visualized by a cross on the screen of the computer terminal. In a bite experiment, the subject is instructed to match this cross with a point on the screen, representing the desired bite-force direction. The procedure allows for determination of the range of possible bite-force directions and magnitudes for various locations on the dental arch and study of the concomitant recruitment patterns of the jaw muscles. Some examples of measurement are given.