Association between maximum bite force and craniofacial morphology in an Amazonian population with normal dental occlusion

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the maximum bite force (MBF) in Amazonian children and young adolescents with normal dental occlusion, the average craniofacial morphology, and investigate associations between craniofacial morphology and body mass with MBF. Ninety-seven children and young adolescents, 21 with primary dentition and 76 with permanent dentition and normal dental occlusion were included in the study. Subjects were from Amazonian tribes studying at three schools in Leticia, Amazonas, Colombia. MBF was determined by means of a digital hydraulic pressure gauge. Body mass index (BMI), facial morphology index, and dental arches transverse dimensions were computed in each subject. Mann Whitney test, a one-tailed non- -parametric statistical analysis, was used to contrast MBF between primary dentition and permanent dentition. The same statistical analysis was used to determine MBF statistical differences between the various facial morphologies. Pearson correlation statistical analysis was used to evaluate associations between MBF with BMI, dental arches transverse dimensions or facial morphology. Statistical significance was determined at 95 percent level of confidence. A significant difference was found for the MBF between subjects in primary dentition (incisors: 116.57 ± 48.30; right molars: 368.38 ± 105.52; left molars: 322.76 ± 83.77) and those in permanent dentition (incisors: 260.88 ± 85.73; right molars: 459.63 ± 167.11; left molars: 645.67 ± 170.60). In addition, an association was observed between MBF and facial morphology index. It was concluded that MBF significantly increases from primary to permanent dentition in subjects with normal dental occlusion. Furthermore, this study agrees with other reports stating that MBF is associated with the morphology of the face, but not with BMI or dental arches transverse dimensions.