Comparative Analysis between Chewing Pattern and Masticatory Speed Relative to the Characteristics of Crushing Food in Smokers

• Published in: International Archives of Otorhinolaryngology 2014-09, Vol.18 (S 01)
• Main Authors: Silva, Gabriela Rodrigues da, Vidor, Deisi Cristina Gollo Marques, Santos, Karoline Weber dos, Maahs, Marcia Angelica Peter, Rech, Rafaela Soares
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1809-9777; 1809-4864
• DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1389038

Introduction: It is known that smoking is an etiologic factor of several oral alterations. Among them are the periodontal problems, dry mouth, tooth loss, premalignant lesions, and also cancer. The functional changes of the oral structures are still little studied, probably due to the fact that these changes occur insidiously and are not always perceived as changes directly related to smoking. Objectives: To analyze, through comparison, the chewing pattern and masticatory speed associated with the type of crushing food in smokers. Methods: This study is a prospective cross-sectional descriptive, composed of 24 smokers. The masticatory aspects were evaluated: crushing food, chewing pattern, and masticatory speed. For statistical analysis, was used Fisher exact test. Results and Conclusion: No statistically significant results were identified when compared to crushing food in relation to chewing pattern and masticatory speed. However, there was a higher occurrence of individuals that make compensatory use of tongue during crushing food as compared with decreased masticatory speed. Such compensation will modify the expected chewing pattern, influencing food intake process, and may exercise supporting role in oral changes related to tobacco exposure. Keywords: Masticatory changes, smoking, stomatognathic system.