Functional loading of the dentition during mastication.

A method is described whereby the electrical activity in the masseter muscles is used as an index of chewing force. By using the kinesiograph, it was possible to determine the interrelationship of the phases of the chewing cycle and to measure the duration of each phase. On the basis of a pilot study of 10 dentate subjects and two complete denture wearers, it appears that, although the magnitude of the applied load is reduced in denture wearers, this is to some extent compensated for by an increase in the time it is applied. The results also suggest that a greater force is applied to the supporting mucoperiosteum when inverted cusp teeth are used in the construction of the dentures.