Comparison of mean maximum bite force in class I complete denture and mandibular distal extension partial denture wearers

Introduction: The efficacy of masticatory system depends on maximum produced by elevating muscles between the mandible and maxilla. The purpose of this study was to determine mean maximum bite force in complete denture and mandibular distal extension partial denture wearers by considering the face and ridge form. Materials and methods: Sixty-four patients, including 32 complete denture and 32 partial denture patients aged 40‒65 years were selected by simple sampling technique for this interventional/analytical study. The patients were divided into 4 groups based on face form (square, square-tapering, tapering and oval) and into 3 groups based on ridge form (square, tapering and oval). Three measurements were made on each side in the first molar region with a digital measuring tool for maximum bite force and mean of these values was used for statistical analysis. Data were analyzed with ANOVA, Spearman’s correlation coefficient, independent t-test and chi-squared test (α = 0.05). Results: Mean maximum bite force in partial denture wearers was 18.4 ± 5.18 kg (20.7 ± 4.63 in men and 16 ± 4.7 in women) (p value < 0.001). Mean maximum bite force in complete denture wearers was 8.5 ± 3.21 kg (9.9 ± 0.53 in men and 7.1 ± 2.17 in women) (p value < 0.001). In different face forms, square face form had maximum bite force compared to others (p value < 0.001). In different ridge forms, square ridge had maximum bite force compared to others (p value < 0.001). Conclusion: Maximum bite force in partial denture patients was significantly greater than that in complete denture patients. In addition, maximum bite forces in square face form, square ridge form and men were higher than others.   Key words: Bite force, Complete denture, Partial denture