Bite Blocks for Braces: Achieving Better Alignment and Oral Health
Bite blocks, also known as ramps or turbos, are small devices that play a significant role in supporting orthodontic treatment with braces. In this article, we will explore what bite blocks are, how they are made, who may need them, potential side effects, and frequently asked questions related to bite blocks. Let's dive in!
What are Bite Blocks?
Bite blocks are custom-made devices that are used in conjunction with braces to help align teeth and improve bite alignment. Braces consist of brackets attached to the teeth and connected with an archwire. By applying gentle pressure, braces gradually move the teeth into their desired position. However, in certain cases, additional support may be required to achieve optimal results, and that's where bite blocks come in.
Bite blocks are designed to prevent the upper and lower teeth from touching, which helps avoid breaking brackets when biting down. By altering the way you bite, bite blocks alleviate pressure on the brackets, leading to faster and more effective teeth alignment and ultimately, a healthier smile.
How are Bite Blocks Made?
Bite blocks are typically custom-made to fit an individual's mouth and can come in various styles. They can be either removable or fixed to the teeth. Removable bite blocks are usually made of soft materials like silicone, gel, or acrylic and are available in different colors. On the other hand, fixed bite blocks are typically made of materials such as glass ionomer cement, bonding resin, or metal.
Sometimes, spring-loaded bite blocks are used to increase pressure on the teeth, aiding in the alignment process. The specific type and material of the bite block will depend on the patient's needs and the orthodontist's recommendation.
Who Needs Bite Blocks?
Orthodontists may recommend bite blocks for individuals with specific dental conditions. These conditions can include an overbite (deep bite), underbite, misaligned teeth, overcrowded teeth, or mouth breathing. Additionally, individuals who clench or grind their teeth may benefit from bite turbos, as they can help realign the bite and relieve pressure on the jaw and temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Bite blocks are commonly used in conjunction with traditional dental braces to correct bite alignment. However, in some cases, they may be used independently. For example, in children, bite blocks can be utilized to correct a crossbite.
Potential Side Effects of Bite Blocks
Like any orthodontic treatment, bite turbos can have some side effects, particularly during the initial adjustment period. It's important to be aware of these potential side effects:
Chewing Problems: Bite blocks can change the way your jaw muscles work, making it necessary to adapt to the new position. Initially, you may experience difficulties while chewing. It is recommended to consume softer foods that require less chewing and to cut food into smaller pieces. With time, your jaw muscles will adapt, and chewing will become more comfortable.
Speech Difficulties: Bite blocks may affect the movement of your tongue during speech, making it challenging to pronounce certain vowel sounds and words. This issue is more common with bite turbos attached to the inside (lingual) surface of the teeth. Practicing speaking when alone can be helpful, but if speech impairments persist, consulting with a speech and language pathologist may be beneficial.
Discomfort: Initially, braces and bite turbos may cause some discomfort. Your mouth may also become dry and sore as your tongue adjusts to the new shape. However, these discomforts should improve over time. Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) can provide relief. If you experience persistent pain or swelling, it is important to contact your dentist for further evaluation.
Lost or Worn Blocks: Bite blocks can become fragile, come off, or wear down over time. It is crucial to notify your orthodontist immediately if you notice a missing or damaged bite block. Proper functioning of the bite blocks is essential to prevent damage to both the braces and teeth.
Biting on One Block: During treatment, your bite may shift, causing your teeth to touch only one block. Although it may feel unusual, this is a normal and expected occurrence. If you are not experiencing pain or any other issues, your dentist may not need to intervene. However, if biting on one block is causing problems, it is advisable to consult with your orthodontist for guidance.
Summary
Bite blocks are temporary devices used to aid in the realignment of the jaw and teeth during orthodontic treatment with braces. By gently separating the upper and lower teeth, bite blocks improve bite alignment, resulting in more efficient treatment and a healthier smile. While they may initially cause some discomfort, bite blocks should not cause pain. However, issues related to chewing and speech may arise, which can be addressed with time and practice. In case of any damage or loss of a bite block, it is important to contact your orthodontist for assessment and replacement.