Factors associated with bite force in people with Parkinson's disease

ABSTRACT Purpose: to assess the bite force in people with Parkinson’s disease and correlate it age, sex, stage time of disease, dentures use, presence temporomandibular disorder, side symptom onset, masticatory preference. Methods: Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders Hoehn & Yahr scale were used, participants’ oral cavity was clinically examined. Then, measured an analog dynamometer, whose bar adapted mouth grip. The results their correlation variables analyzed independent t-test (p<0.05). Results: sample comprised 42 parkinsonians at a mean age 64 years, 67% whom males. No difference observed Parkinson's disease; or between sides, onset However, there significant association sexes (males females) both sides (right - p=0.002; left p=0.04) denture use on right (p=0.03). Conclusion: being female using are factors associated decreased disease.