Comparisons of Masticatory Movements between Mixing Ability Test and Masticatory Performance Test

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare mandibular movements in the mixing ability test with those in the masticatory performance test.Methods: Twenty-six dentate subjects (mean age 25.3 years) performed a mixing ability test using a two-colored paraffin wax cube and a masticatory performance test using 3 g peanuts. Mandibular movements during the chewing of each test item were recorded using an opto-electronic system. Twelve parameters of mandibular movements on a mandibular incisal point were measured for each masticatory cycle. The mean from 2nd to 5th cycle in each parameter was employed for paired t-test.Results: 7 of 12 parameters showed significant mean differences between the mixing ability test and the masticatory performance test. Vertical amplitude, anteroposterior amplitude, maximum closing velocity and opening angle for the mixing ability test were significantly greater than for the masticatory performance test (P<0.05). Opening duration and cycle duration for the mixing ability test were significantly longer than for the masticatory performance test (P<0.05). Envelope angle for the mixing ability test was significantly less than for the masticatory performance test (P<0.001).Conclusion: The results of this study suggest mandibular movements in the mixing ability test are partially different from those in masticatory performance test.