METHODS FOR STUDYING THE MASTICATORY APPARATUS DURING ACTIVATED MASTICATORY FUNCTION

Authors

  • Mariana Iordanova Dimova-Gabrovska Medical University of Sofia. Faculty of Dental Medicine, Bulgaria
  • Yoana Rumenova Brusarska Medical University of Sofia. Faculty of Dental Medicine, Bulgaria
  • Desislava Dimitrova Private Praxis
  • Spartak Spasov Yanakiev Medical college “Y. Filaretova”, Medical University of Sofia, Bulgaria

Keywords:

maximum bite force, gnathodynamometry, muscle tone, additive manufacturing materials

Abstract

Prosthetic dentistry is a specialized field focused on restoring functional abilities in patients, with a primary emphasis on masticatory (chewing) function. Chewing involves coordinated activity between teeth, muscles, the tongue, and the temporomandibular joint. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective restoration of masticatory function. This literature review aims to examine the most commonly used methods for assessing bite force and masticatory muscle tone, especially in relation to materials used in additive permanent restorations. The review utilized databases such as PubMed, EBSCOhost, Web of Science and Wiley Online Library to source relevant studies in both Bulgarian and English. The review identified two main methods for measuring bite force and muscle tone. Gnathodynamometry is a traditional method used to gauge maximum bite force without inducing pain in the periodontal tissues, which serves as a proxy for masticatory efficiency. In the 1980s, a gnathodynamometer was developed in Bulgaria, later refined and registered as a utility model in 2012. The masticatory muscles, integral to bite force, directly impact maximum bite force. Muscle tone, which enhances masticatory force, can be assessed using the OMFT Myo-scan device developed by Peter Helderop. This device evaluates the compression strength of the lips, tongue muscles, masseter muscle, and orbicularis oris. Studies on maximum bite force in the context of different restorative materials indicate that these materials should possess mechanical properties comparable to those of natural dental tissues. Research suggests that stress on teeth during function can exceed even the flexural strength of high-strength ceramics. This finding motivated the research team's focus on two innovative materials for additive manufacturing of fixed restorations: VarseoSmile Crown plus and CROWNTEC. Laboratory studies have examined the mechanical and physical properties of these hybrid materials; however, clinical data remains limited. There is a lack of studies evaluating bite force and function in patients using prostheses made from these materials. Given that functionality is a primary determinant of restoration success, clinical trials on patients with prostheses produced from VarseoSmile Crown plus and CROWNTEC are essential.

Author Biographies

Mariana Iordanova Dimova-Gabrovska, Medical University of Sofia. Faculty of Dental Medicine, Bulgaria

Department of Prosthetic Dentistry

Yoana Rumenova Brusarska, Medical University of Sofia. Faculty of Dental Medicine, Bulgaria

Department of Prosthetic Dentistry

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Published

2025-04-25

How to Cite

Iordanova Dimova-Gabrovska, M., Rumenova Brusarska, Y., Dimitrova, D., & Spasov Yanakiev, S. (2025). METHODS FOR STUDYING THE MASTICATORY APPARATUS DURING ACTIVATED MASTICATORY FUNCTION. KNOWLEDGE - International Journal , 67(4), 549–554. Retrieved from https://ojs.ikm.mk/index.php/kij/article/view/7423