Maximum bite forces in healthy adults with complete natural dentition: A systematic review

PURPOSE: To systematically review and synthesize the available scientific evidence on maximum masticatory forces in adults with complete natural dentition, analyzing differences by anatomical region of the dental arch and by sex, and the influence of the recording protocol and measurement device. METHODS: statistic and investigated through subgroup analyses stratified by measurement device, recording protocol (unilateral/bilateral), sex, and dental region, as well as meta-regression for age. RESULTS: of the variance, identifying the measurement device and anatomical location as the dominant drivers of heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS: Maximum masticatory force varies significantly across dental arch regions and between sexes, with posterior teeth showing higher force values. While sexual dimorphism and age are critical biological modulators, reported values are highly dependent on the measurement device and recording protocol (unilateral vs. bilateral). These findings provide stratified reference values for clinical use while underscoring the need for protocol and technological standardization.