Reliability, reference values and factors related to maximum bite force measured by the Innobyte system in healthy adults with natural dentitions.

Objectives: We aimed to determine the predictors of maximum bite force (MBF), as measured with the Innobyte system, and to assess the reliability and reference values for MBF in young adults with natural dentitions.

Methods: This cross-sectional test-retest study included 101 dental students with natural dentitions. Participants had their dental occlusion examined and completed three questionnaires: the Temporomandibular disorders Pain Screener, Oral Behavior Checklist, and Jaw Functional Limitation Scale. Body mass index and muscle mass percentage were determined, and handgrip strength was measured with a dynamometer. The MBF was measured with Innobyte, with reliability assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient, expressing reference values as MBF percentiles. Bivariate tests and multiple linear regression models were used for statistical analysis.

Results: The intraclass correlation coefficient for the MBF was 0.90, with 10th to 90th percentiles of 487-876 N for females and 529-1003 N for males. A positive relationship existed between the MBF and male sex, muscle mass percentage, overbite, handgrip strength, and possible sleep/awake bruxism. Stepwise regression showed that overbite, handgrip strength, and possible sleep/awake bruxism had the greatest effect on the MBF, explaining 27% of the variation.

Conclusions: This study provides reference values for MBF when using the Innobyte system and shows excellent reliability. Overbite, general strength, and self-reported bruxism appear to be important predictors of MBF.

Clinical relevance: Innobyte is a reliable device that can be used to measure MBF bilaterally. Self-reported bruxism is associated with an 8%-10% increase in MBF.