A comparison of tactile thresholds in responce to lateral and vertical forces to teeth by using a new measuring device

Date
1997
DOI
Authors
Hoe, Yoeng Ku
Version
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
The purposes of this investigation were to develop a reproducible stimulating device for determining the tactile perception thresholds from the periodontal ligament of human teeth, and to compare the threshold levels in response to vertical and lateral forces. It was necessary to establish a fixed relationship and “passive contact” between the device and the test tooth to apply reproducible forces as we11 as avoid “tapping” forces. A new device was designed to apply forces in a vertical and horizontal direction to a test tooth. These forces were generated by miniature solenoids and monitored by a multimeter. A stabilized bite fork was made to securely hold the solenoid in position. The position of the solenoid was adjustable in order to direct the force either perpendicular to or parallel to the tooth axis. Once the fixed relationship between the device and the tooth was obtained, a passive contact between the solenoid and the test tooth was established. The reliability of the force applications with this device was verified by using an Instron testing machine. Fifteen subjects with sound maxillary central incisors were selected, ranging in age from 23 to 48 years. Five specific lateral forces were applied to the test tooth 20 times at each force level. The same procedure was repeated with vertical forces. The results showed a significant difference (p[less than].001) between tactile thresholds registered in the vertical direction (0.022 N [plus or minus] 0.0067 N) compared to the horizontal direction (0.013 N [plus or minus] 0.0046 N). This result suggests that natural teeth are more sensitive to horizontal forces rather than vertical forces.
Description
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Thesis (M.Sc.)--Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, 1997 (Prosthodontics).
Includes bibliographical references: (leaves 75-84).
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This work is protected by copyright. Downloading is restricted to the BU community. If you are the author of this work and would like to make it publicly available, please contact open-help@bu.edu.