In vivo evaluation of occlusalcontact area and maximum bite force in patients with various types of implant-supported prostheses.

Objective: To determine the effects of various implant retained and/or supported prostheses on number of occlusal contacts (NOC), occlusal contact area (OCA)and maximum bite force (BF).

Patients And Methods: In total, 56 patients were included in the study; five test groups and two control groups. The patients in the treatment groups received implant-supported/retained prosthesis; over-dentures retained with two individual attachments in occlusion with complete denture, with four individual attachments in occlusion with complete denture, with four individual attachments in occlusion with fixed partial dentures or natural dentition, 6-implant retained fixed bridges in occlusion with natural dentition and 8-implant retained fixed bridges in occlusion with natural dentition.

Evaluation of orofacial function in temporomandibular disorder patients after low-level laser therapy.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of low-level laser therapy on occlusal contact area, occlusal pressure and bite force in temporomandibular disorder patients.

Patients And Method: Twenty patients (14 women, six men, mean age 33.1 ± 3.