Effect of increased and decreased bite force on morphology of periodontal tissues]

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to observe the effect of bite force on morphology of periodontal tissues. METHODS: Animal models were induced by extracting the left maxillary molars; the left mandibular molars served as decreased bite force models; the right mandibular molars served as increased bite force models. The dynamic changes of widths of periodontal ligament and cementum were measured. RESULTS: In decreased bite force group, there were significant morphologic changes of periodontal tissues after 1 week. In increased bite force group, there was no significant change. Ligament widths were significantly different after 2, 3 weeks respectively in those two groups, compared with that in control group (P < 0.05). There were significant differences between proximal alveolar wall and distal alveolar wall in width (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The histological morphology is closely related to the mechanical condition. Physiological bite force is necessary for periodontal ligament to maintain its physiological structure.