The bite force of a human can vary significantly from person to person, but on average, it ranges between 120 to 160 pounds of force.
This force is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI), and for humans, it typically falls around 162 PSI. Factors that influence bite force include age, sex, and individual differences in jaw strength and dental structure.
Interestingly, humans are not the strongest biters in the animal kingdom. Many animals, such as crocodiles and great white sharks, can exert much higher bite forces. However, the human bite is well adapted for our omnivorous diet, allowing us to process a variety of foods.
In terms of function, a strong bite force can be beneficial for tasks such as chewing tougher foods and even for self-defense. However, it’s important to note that excessive force applied to teeth can lead to dental issues, so care should be taken in how we use our bite.