Numerous muscles acting simultaneously on the mandible are utilized to
create a bite force. Defining the involvement of each muscle to the creation of this bite
force is the biggest challenge as it cannot be resolved using the conditions of static
equilibrium. Estimation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) forces from
mathematical models has a long history but has led to conflicting results. The biggest
disagreement has been over whether the TMJ is even load bearing. To model
completely all of the forces involved in the production of the TMJ reaction force will
be difficult as all force vectors need to be established in three-dimensions. Three
different approaches have been proposed to calculate all the muscle forces and the
forces in the temporomandibular joints during biting.
Keywords: Barbenel, Bite force, Muscle tension, Physiological cross-sectional
areas, Pruim, Temporomandibular joint forces, Throckmorton.
