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How Strong Is a Human Bite?

Published in Human Biology 1 min read

A human bite force is measured at approximately 162 pounds per square inch (psi).

While this may seem substantial, it's important to put it into perspective. Compared to other mammals, humans don't possess an exceptionally powerful bite. Factors influencing bite strength include jaw muscle size and bone structure.

Here's a basic comparison:

  • Human: 162 psi
  • Domestic Dog: Approximately 230-250 psi
  • Lion: Around 600 psi
  • Grizzly Bear: Over 1,200 psi
  • Saltwater Crocodile: Over 3,700 psi

This comparison demonstrates that while a human bite can inflict damage, it pales in comparison to the bite force of many other animals. The strength of a human bite is sufficient for tearing food, but it's not designed for crushing bone or inflicting the same level of trauma as some other animals.

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