Effects of Hard Gum Chewing on Facial Soft Tissue Morphology

Summary

This pilot clinical trial will evaluate whether intentional chewing of a standardized hard chewing gum for 4 weeks produces measurable changes in facial morphology in healthy adults. Twenty participants aged 20-40 years will undergo three-dimensional facial imaging (3dMD) at baseline (T0), after the 4-week chewing intervention (T1), and following a 4-5-week washout period (T2). Changes in facial soft-tissue morphology will be assessed using three-dimensional surface analysis, including heatmaps, regional surface displacement, and morphometric measurements. Secondary outcomes include self-reported muscle fatigue, soreness, adherence, and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms.

Detailed Description

Facial morphology is influenced by multiple functional factors, including masticatory muscle activity. Although hard gum chewing has been promoted as a method to improve facial definition and jawline appearance, there is limited scientific evidence demonstrating whether intentional chewing can produce measurable changes in facial soft tissues. The purpose of this prospective pilot clinical trial is to evaluate the effect of intentional hard gum chewing on facial morphology using three-dimensional stereophotogrammetry (3dMD). Twenty healthy adults aged 20-40 years will be enrolled. Participants will complete a standardized hard-gum chewing protocol every other day for 4 weeks. Each chewing session will last approximately 16 minutes and will follow a predefined protocol designed to provide a consistent masticatory stimulus. Three-dimensional facial images will be obtained at baseline (T0), immediately after the intervention period (T1), and after a 4-5-week washout period (T2). Facial changes will be assessed through surface registration techniques, heatmap analysis, regional displacement measurements, and linear and angular soft-tissue measurements. Participants will also complete questionnaires regarding muscle fatigue, soreness, oral behaviors, and temporomandibular symptoms. The primary objective is to determine whether intentional hard gum chewing produces measurable changes in facial morphology. Secondary objectives include evaluating participant-reported outcomes and monitoring for adverse events or symptoms suggestive of temporomandibular disorders. Because this is a pilot study, the results will be used to estimate effect sizes and feasibility for future larger clinical trials investigating the relationship between masticatory activity and facial soft-tissue adaptation.

Eligibility Criteria

Interventions