Features of human jaw design which maximize the bite force.

A linear programming model, operating in a three-dimensional coordinate system, was written to study the effect on unilateral maximum bite forces (MBFs) of small changes in the design of human jaws. Under some conditions the MBF was larger on a more anterior tooth than a more posterior tooth for a given bite direction. The MBF was increased (i) as the bite force was tilted forward, (ii) as the jaw was opened if its direction was kept perpendicular to the occlusal plane of the lower jaw, (iii) by placing teeth nearer the midline, (iv) by raising the height of the teeth for forward bite forces, and (v) by tilting forward the articular surface of the condyle (equivalent to creating an articular eminence). Increasing the distance between the condyles spread the load more evenly between the two joints. The articular eminence was the only design feature which seemed to be clearly related to increasing the MBF.