Level of accuracy and degree of precision in attempting to maintain steady levels of biting force.
The primary purpose of this study was to assess the level of accuracy (bias) and degree of precision for a group of 24 normal subjects attempting to maintain a constant biting force at levels of 100 gm, 500 gm, 1000 gm and 2000 gm for a period of 10 s each. Accuracy is defined as the difference between subjects' actual level of biting force and the target value they were trying to achieve. Precision is the level or range of variability demonstrated by the subjects while attempting to bite with a constant level of force. Subjects' performance relative to accuracy and precision was also compared when using the central incisors vs. the first permanent molars. Assessment of bite force was measured using a specially designed strain gauge scale which permitted subjects to visually monitor when their biting force equalled a preset resistance. Each subject was instructed to bite on the end of a plastic sheathed steel beam with enough force to activate the indicator needle on the voltage meter to its central position and to try to maintain a constant level of biting force (by attempting to keep the indicator needle steady in its central position). No significant (P > 0.05) differences were found in mean accuracy in bite force for gender or specific teeth used in the biting task. However, a significant difference (P < 0.0001) in mean accuracy in bite force was found to exist between the target levels.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Williams
W N
WN
Craniofacial Center, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610.
Coffey
J
J
Turner
G E
GE
Crary
M E
ME
Capen
R
R
Wharton
P W
PW
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001732:Bite Force; D003799:Dental Stress Analysis / Q000592:standards*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007180:Incisor / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D008963:Molar / Q000502:physiology; D010465:Perception / Q000502:physiology*; D011597:Psychomotor Performance; D015203:Reproducibility of Results