Level of accuracy and degree of precision in attempting to maintain steady levels of biting force

Summary The primary purpose of this study was to assess the level of accuracy (bias) and degree of precision for a group of 24 normal subjects attempting to maintain a contsant biting force at levels of 100 gm. 500 gm, 100 gm and 2000 gm for a period of 10s each. Accuracy is defined as the difference between subjects actual level of biting force and the target value they were trying to achieve. Precision is the level or range of variability demonstrated by the subjects while attempting to bite with a constant level of force. Subjects performance relative to accuracy and precision was also compared when using the central incisors vs. the first permanent molars. Assessment of bite force was measured using a specially designed strain gauge scale which permitted subjects to visually monitor when their biting force equalled a preset resistance. Each subject was instructed to bite on the end of a plastic sheathed steel beam with enough foree to activate the indicator needle on the voltage meter to its central position and to try to maintain a constant level of biting foree (by attempting to keep the indicator needle steady in its central position). No significant (P > 0.05) differences were found in mean accuracy in bite force for gendeer or specific teeth used in the biting task. However, a significant difference (P < 0.0001) in mean accuracy in bite force was found to exist between the target elvels. At the lowest standard force (100 gm) there was a mean group bias of +17 gm while at the highest standard (2000 gm) the mean group bias was −103 gm. Analysis of subjects precision in biting force revelaed significant differences in performance relative to gender (P 0.01) and target levels (P < 0.0001).