MASTICATORY FORCES Meaning and
Definition
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Masticatory forces refer to the muscular forces exerted by the jaw during the process of chewing or mastication. These forces are responsible for breaking down food into smaller, more manageable pieces that can be easily swallowed and digested.
The masticatory forces are generated by the muscles of the temporomandibular joint, which include the masseter, temporalis, and medial pterygoid muscles. When food is placed in the mouth, these muscles contract and coordinate their movements to exert pressure on the food, crushing and grinding it between the teeth. The force applied during chewing can vary depending on various factors, such as the hardness and texture of the food, as well as individual differences in jaw strength.
These masticatory forces play a crucial role in the digestive process as they promote efficient breakdown of food, making it easier for the digestive enzymes to access and break down the nutrients during the subsequent stages of digestion. Additionally, the masticatory forces also help in stimulating salivary flow, enabling the moistening and lubrication of food for easier swallowing.
Problems associated with masticatory forces can arise in conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorders or dental malocclusions, where the normal functioning of the jaw and associated muscles may be compromised. Understanding and measuring masticatory forces can therefore be important in evaluating and managing such conditions, as well as in designing and fitting appropriate dental prosthetics or orthodontic treatments.
Common Misspellings for MASTICATORY FORCES
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Etymology of MASTICATORY FORCES
The word masticatory comes from the Latin word masticatorius, which means pertaining to chewing or grinding. It is derived from the Latin verb masticare, meaning to chew.
The term forces in this context refers to the physical pressure applied during the process of chewing or mastication. It comes from the Old French word force, which originated from the Latin word fortia, meaning strength or power.
