Impact of mastication on maxillofacial morphology and on the construction of the occlusion

Abstract

Mastication, one of the functions performed by the manducatory apparatus, constitutes a real «functional matrix» to stimulate the growth of the jaws and dental arches. Its physiological development, unilateral and alternating, in the presence of an untenderized natural food, will progressively shape and level the occlusal reliefs, facilitating mandibular movements, but also adapting the size, shape and position of the dental arches, leading them to a normal and sufficient development to progressively allow the arrival of all the permanent teeth in a correct morphological and functional occlusion. In our modern civilization of the «premade», the muscular masticatory solicitations are insufficient and induce numerous orthodontic disorders. In fact, many malocclusions that already occur in temporary or mixed dentition are the result of impotence or functional alteration of mastication from a very young age, often in the face of a modern, inconsistent or semi-liquid diet.