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Patients with removable partial dentures or complete dentures do not demonstrate masticatory function to the same level as patients with a full set of natural teeth. The purpose of this study was to characterize the relationship between reduction of masticatory function, in terms of masticatory performance and bite force, and the existence of remaining natural occlusal supports as assessed by the Eichner index. One hundred and eighteen removable partial denture and complete denture wearers were selected for analyses. These subjects were divided into four groups depending upon the number of occlusal supports. Seventy dentate subjects with full occlusal support were designated as a comparison group. Bilateral bite force was measured at the first molar region in all subjects. Masticatory performance was assessed using the modified Masticatory Performance Index. Peanuts were used as the test food. Both bite force and masticatory performance were significantly associated with group classification. Moreover, both bite force and masticatory performance of the four denture groups were significantly reduced compared to the comparison group and this tendency was remarkable for the denture groups without occlusal support. These results suggest that the existence of functional tooth units may be a key factor in preservation of masticatory function.

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The purpose of this article is to review the literature concerning the ideal chewing pattern for best chewing performance. We conclude that at this time there is not one ideal chewing pattern which can be used clinically or in research to assess the health of the mastication apparatus nor to predict chewing performance. It is clear that human masticatory behaviour is one of the most complex human behaviours. Chewing is under the control of the central pattern generator located in the brain stem but is influenced by dental and temporomandibular joint morphology. The most important portion of the chewing cycle is the area entering and leaving the intercuspal position where gliding contacts occur. Maximal chewing capability will likely occur when the chewing pattern follows the dental anatomy unique to the individual. The chewing cycle appears to increase the lateral component of its movement when increased chewing efficiency is required. These situations include increased hardness or the size of bolus, the position of the bolus and the results of the proceeding chewing stroke. The chewing pattern for any one cycle is influenced by a number of factors, thus it is not surprising that the question of the ideal chewing pattern remains unresolved.