Maximum Bite Force following Unilateral Fixed Prosthetic Treatment: A Within-Subject Comparison to the Dentate Side

OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the maximum occlusal bite force (MBF) among individuals with fixed partial dentures compared to the opposite dentate side and determined the relationship between MBF and gender, age, and body mass index (BMI). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of 85 subjects (43 males and 42 females, age range 28–66 years) with fixed partial dentures on one side and dentate on the other side participated in the study. The MBF was measured at the first molar area on both sides using a digital hydraulic bite force gauge. The highest MBF value was recorded from three measurements of bite force at each side (with 45-second intervals between measurements). RESULTS: The mean MBF was 596.2 ± 76.3 N at the dentate side and 580.9 ± 74.3 N at the fixed partial denture side. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The MBF values were greater in males as well as in taller and heavier participants. Nevertheless, the BMI had no relationship with MBF values (p >0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Within the same subjects, the measured MBF values at the dentate side were higher than those at the fixed partial denture side. Females, lighter, and shorter participants had lower MBF values. Meanwhile, the BMI had no significant relationship to MBF values.