Evaluation of median mandibular flexure values in dentulous and edentulous subjects by using an intraoral digital scanner

PURPOSE: Mandibular flexure is a crucial phenomenon that may affect the success of rigid bilateral mandibular prosthetic treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the amount of median mandibular flexure (MMF) that occurs during mouth opening from anterior to posterior mandible in seven different regions, in different age and gender groups of both dentulous and edentulous subjects, using an intraoral digital scanner. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, the mandibular arch of 56 dentulous and 35 edentulous individuals were scanned with an intraoral scanner at both the minimum mouth opening (MnMO) and the maximum mouth opening (MxMO). MMF values were calculated by subtracting the distance value at the MxMO from the distance between the reference points at the MnMO at seven different mandibular regions of dentulous and edentulous subjects. In addition, the left and right side MMF values were measured. All data were analyzed statistically (α = .05). RESULTS: MMF value increased linearly from anterior to posterior mandible in both dentulous and edentulous individuals. The differences in MMF values were not statistically significant according to side (left/right), age, or gender (P > .05). No significant differences were found between the mean MMF values of the same region in both dentulous and edentulous individuals (P > .05). CONCLUSION: MMF was seen in different regions of the mandibles of both edentulous and dentulous individuals measured at the MxMO. Mandibular flexure should be considered for the success and prognosis of the long-span and rigid prostheses.