부산대학교 도서관

This study evaluated nonspecific psychosomatic factors influencing masticatory performance. The patient population consisted of 60 males and 60 females, each with normal dentation, functionally normal occlusion, a healthy periodontum, and without temporomandibular joint dysfunction. The mean age of the males was 25.5±3.8 years (S. D.) and that of the females was 27.1±4.9 years.Masticatory performanoe was assessed on the basis of the degree of pulverization of a test material when chewed. The test material was 5.0gm of ATP particle. The material was chewed 50 times and then pulverization was measured by absorbance.The following results were obtained:1. The mean value of masticatory performance was 1.12±0.33 Abs in males and 0.86±0.29 Abs in females. Statistical analysis by t-test showed the males masticatory performance to be significantly higher (p<0.05) than that of the females.2. The masticatory performance significantly was higher in: 1) individuals with strong desire for mastication, 2) individuals who enjoy the taste of food, 3) individuals with a strict lifelong tooth brushing habit and 4) individuals who are more patient than the control group. The masticatory performance was also higher in: 1) individuals in the habit of chewing sufficiently, 2) individuals who enjoy solid foods, 3) individuals who notice the aroma of the food, 4) individuals with good oral hygiene habits, and 5) individuals in good health. Masticatory performance was significantly lower than in the control group. However in: 1) individuals incapable of controlling their own health and 2) individuals who tend to suffer from abdominal discomfort after overeating. Groups with a tendency towards values not achieving statistical significance were noted in: 1) those with a habit of incomplete chewing, 2) those who prefer soft foods, and 3) those with a propensity for gastrointestinal disturbances in response to environmental changes.3. Over the course of five observations within one week, masticatory performance was seen to gradually improve. The results at the fifth measurement revealed an improvement of 32% in males and 35% in females. This suggests a learned effect.It can be concluded that psychosomatic factors such as patterns of daily life, general health, personality, and learned patterns of mastication can influence masticatory performance.