A novel approach to bite force measurements in a porcine model in vivo

A novel device for a bite force measurement system in a porcine model is described. A single polyethylene layer was vacuum-formed into a splint, and a force sensor was fitted on to the splint occlusal surface and seated with a silicone layer. This design enabled the measurement of bite forces on selected teeth in a large animal model with either natural dentition or single implant crowns and could be used in assessing information on biomechanical adaptation of the bone–implant interface to masticatory loads.Preliminary recordings of force values obtained during mastication in the premolar region (200–560 N) and various limiting factors of the technical design are discussed.