EMG activity of the masseter muscle in implant supported overdenture wearers during chewing of hard and soft food

The influence of texture of food on the surface electromyographic (EMG) activity of the masseter muscle was investigated in a sample of mandibular implant overdenture wearers. Six experienced denture wearers (mean age 57.8 years) with mandibular overdentures supported by two implants, consented to participate in this study. Fresh raw carrots and peeled apples of similar size and weight were chosen as representing hard and soft food, respectively. The findings were in line with those earlier reported in dentate subjects and complete denture wearers in that harder foods require higher chewing rates, higher EMG activity and higher relative contraction times, accompanied by shorter cycle durations. It was also concluded that rehabilitation with implant retained mandibular dentures may result in more regular chewing patterns with higher electrical activity of the masseter muscles, thus providing improved chewing function and comfort.