A STUDY OF RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BITE FORCE, MASSETER MUSCLE AND CRANIOFACIAL MORPHOLOGY : CEPHALOMETRIC & ULTRASONOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between bite force, masseter muscle and craniofacial morphology. 141 individuals were included. Bite forces were measured with a bite force transducer(SKT 2004). The facial morphology of the samples was evaluated on the Lateral and PA cephalometric radiographs(Asahi CX-90 SP). Ultrasonographic images were obtained for 36 individuals(Logiq 500). General status of the subjects were also measured for investigating possible relationships. Their relationships were analyzed by means of t-test, Pearson's correlation coefficients and simple regression analysis. In conclusion, bite force of molar was significantly correlated with craniofacial morphology for males and females, but not to masseter muscles. The masseter muscle for males had a significant correlation with craniofacial morphology. The unexpected negative correlations between size of masseter muscle and maxillary width was revealed for males. One possible way to arrive at a plausible explanation for the correlation between masster muscle, bite force and craniofacial morphology of males were the deep layer of masseter muscle had a great influence on males and the superficial layer of masseter muscle had a great influence on females.