Clinical interpretation of a masticatory normative indicator analysis of masticatory function in subjects with different occlusal and prosthodontic status

Objectives To analyse the masticatory function of subjects characterised by different occlusal and prosthodontic status. Using Optosil® as a test food, the masticatory normative indicator (MNIOPT) was used to differentiate between sufficient (‘normal’) and impaired masticatory function. Methods Outcomes of occlusal force and masticatory tests were aggregated from three earlier studies dealing with four denture groups and three natural dentition groups. The four denture groups had a complete removable dental prosthesis in the upper jaw, and displayed one of the four following lower jaw prosthodontic rehabilitations: (i) complete removable dental prosthesis on a low mandible; (ii) complete removable dental prosthesis on a higher mandible; (iii) overdenture on natural roots; and (iv) overdenture on dental implants. The three natural dentition groups were: (i) shortened dental arch; (ii) complete dentition in older participants, and (iii) complete dentition in younger participants. All participants were women. They performed the same tests twice, and outcomes were averaged. Results A MNIOPT value of 3.68mm was determined from the participants with complete natural dentitions. Applying the MNIOPT to the participants in the denture groups pointed at a considerable chance for impaired masticatory function, except for participants in the overdenture – implants group. The four denture groups compensated for reduced masticatory efficiency by increased number of masticatory cycles and prolonged mastication time until ‘swallowing’. Nevertheless, they also ‘swallowed’ larger particles compared to the complete dentition group. Clinical significance For a given patient or for a group of subjects with specific dental conditions, MNI enables to discriminate between a sufficient (‘normal’) and an impaired masticatory function.