The force magnitude of a human bite measured at the molar intercuspidation using fiber Bragg gratings

Abstract This study describes a localized method – using optical fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) – to determine the human bite force at the very moment of occlusion, in maximum intercuspidation. The FBG was encapsulated in a silicone splint between uppers and lowers first molars and avoiding pre-contact with the other teeth in a dentition model. Gypsum dental castings of two volunteers are performed in a semi-adjustable articulator in the occluded situation to maintain angulations of the occlusal plane within normal occlusion. The sensor was characterized in vitro for both volunteers and the human bite force is measured in vivo. The orthodontic forces on the sensor are acquired at four moments: before of occlusion (free situation), occlusion, biting and maximum bite. The measured maximum bite forces are 85 N for female (brachyfacial) volunteer and 76 N for male (mesofacial) volunteer, between right uppers and lowers first molars. The difference can be associated to the facial pattern. The results obtained show the possibility to employ the optical encapsulated sensor to perform measurements of orthodontic forces in order to analysis different types of facial patterns with minimum of interference at occlusion.