Masticatory Performance in Mixed Dentition Children Before and After Dental Treatment

This prospective clinical study aimed to evaluate the effects of dental treatment on masticatory performance and food preferences in children during the mixed dentition period. A total of 100 children aged 6 to 9 years were included and categorized into three groups based on the Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST) index (CAST 5, 6, and 7). Masticatory performance was objectively assessed using a two-coloured chewing gum mixing test (Vivident Fruit Swing) and analyzed with ViewGum© software by calculating the Variance of Hue (VOH) value. Assessments were performed before and three months after dental treatment. Additional variables such as posterior occlusal contacts, body mass index (BMI), and pain scores were also recorded. The study aimed to determine the improvement in masticatory function and the potential association between oral rehabilitation and food preference changes in children during the mixed dentition period.

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Key information

Conditions

Dental Caries Stomatognathic Diseases Tooth Demineralization Tooth Diseases

Age range

6 year–9 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Erciyes University

Kayseri, Turkey (Türkiye)

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

Children aged 6 to 9 years in the mixed dentition period Presence of dental caries categorized as CAST codes 5, 6, or 7 Children with fully erupted permanent first molars Medically healthy children (ASA I) Cooperative or manageable with nonpharmacological behavior guidance techniques Written informed consent obtained from parents or legal guardians

Exclusion criteria

Children with systemic or neurological disorders affecting mastication or swallowing History of orthodontic or prosthetic treatment Presence of temporomandibular joint dysfunction Use of medications influencing salivary flow or muscle activity Uncooperative children for whom the chewing test could not be standardized

Treatment and study plan

Dental Treatment

Other

Comprehensive dental treatment including restorative procedures, pulp therapy, and extractions performed under local anesthesia as indicated. The intervention aimed to eliminate dental caries and restore normal oral function. Masticatory performance was evaluated before and three months after treatment using a two-coloured chewing gum mixing test and analyzed with ViewGum© software to assess improvement in chewing ability.

Primary outcomes

Change in Variance of Hue (VOH) Values Before and After Dental Treatment

Time frame: Baseline and 3 months after dental treatment

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

TC Erciyes University

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Masticatory Performance in Mixed Dentition Children Before and After Dental Treatment: an in Vivo Assessment Using a Two-coloured Chewing Gum Mixing Test

Important dates

Study start: 2025
Primary completion: 2025
Study completion: 2025
First posted: Dec 9, 2025
Registry last updated: Dec 9, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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Completed