The Effect of the Changing Dentition on Masticatory Function

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Abstract
400 children from 6-15 yrs. of age were studied in order to determine the effect of the changing dentition on masticatory function. Masticatory performance, swallowing threshold, food platform area and the max. biting force were detd. on both sides of the dentitions. It was possible to predict masticatory efficiency from masticatory performance with considerable accuracy. The masticatory performances with peanuts were well correlated with the performances with carrots, with efficiency, and with the swallowing threshold. The masticatory efficiencies of the children extended over a wide range and averaged about half that of adults who had all their teeth except the 3d molar. The 1st and 2d permanent molars did not improve masticatory function immediately after eruption, but efficiency gradually increased over 3-4 yrs. Efficiency declined after age 10 yrs. and rose again by age 14, probably because of the time required for the recently erupted teeth to become functional.
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