In 1981, Lundeen and Gibbs used a “Replicator” to analyse mastication and the incidence of dental contacts during mastication cycles.

In the presence of dental stress, the masticating area is reduced in the antero-posterior dimension. Potentialize of the activity of the posterior head of the temporal muscle, combined or not with the mechanical effect of incisal guidance, tends to generate mandibular retroposition and contributes to the onset of disc luxation.

We are currently conducting research into top-flight athletes in order to optimise their mouth-guards (or dento-maxillary shields). A preliminary study showed a variation in the projection of the center of gravity of subjects depending on the type of dental contact adopted. Likewise, an experimental stress placed upon the incisors comparable to that observed in Class II Div. 2 was analysed on a stabilometry plate. The results measured demonstrate the impact of the stress upon postural stability.