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Dave Johnson Dental Lab, Inc. Wednesday, January 17th, 2024

The Ins and Outs of Bite Blocks in Orthodontics.

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Bite blocks, also known as bite turbos, are components used in orthodontics to create space between the upper and lower teeth, particularly the back teeth (molars). They are typically small, raised platforms placed on certain teeth to prevent full closure of the jaws, allowing the orthodontist to achieve specific treatment objectives. Bite blocks for braces play a crucial role in orthodontics, helping in the correction of various bite issues and creating the required space for tooth position. Here are the ins and outs of bite blocks dental braces:

Purpose:

  • Open bite correction: Bite blocks are often used to address open bites where there is insufficient vertical overlap between the upper and lower teeth.
  • Deep bite management: In some cases, they can be employed to help manage deep bites by preventing excessive biting forces and encouraging the natural eruption of certain teeth.
  • Braces adjustment: Bite blocks are sometimes used in conjunction with braces to help adjust the positioning of the teeth and achieve the desired bite relationship.

Types of Bite Blocks:

  • Removable bite blocks: The patient can remove these tiny, detachable appliances, which are affixed to the teeth. They are often used in specific situations and for short periods of time.
  • Fixed bite blocks: The patient cannot remove these since they are cemented to the teeth. They are more commonly used in comprehensive orthodontic treatments.

Materials:

  • Acrylic bite blocks: Many bite blocks are made from acrylic material. The orthodontist can make necessary adjustments to the acrylic blocks, which are made specifically to fit the patient’s teeth.
  • Composite bite blocks: Some bite blocks are made from dental composite materials. These are often used for temporary adjustments.

Placement and adjustment:

  • Customization: Bite blocks are customized to the patient’s specific needs. The orthodontist assesses the patient’s bite and decides on the type and placement of the bite blocks.
  • Regular check-ups: Regular appointments with the orthodontist are necessary to monitor the progress and make any needed adjustments to the bite blocks.

Patient comfort and care:

  • Speech and eating: Patients may experience some difficulty with speech and eating initially, but they typically adapt over time.
  • Oral hygiene: Proper oral hygiene is crucial when using bite blocks. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to prevent plaque buildup around the appliance.

Duration of use:

The duration of use of bite blocks varies depending on the specific orthodontic case. They may be used for a few weeks to several months, and the orthodontist will determine when they can be removed.

 

How Bite Blocks Contribute to Braces Effectiveness.

Bite block implants contribute to the effectiveness of braces in several ways, playing a specific role in the overall orthodontic treatment plan. Here’s how dental applications of bite blocks contribute to the success of braces:

  • Overbite correction: One of the primary functions of bite blocks is to correct deep overbites. When a patient has a deep overbite, the lower front teeth may excessively contact the upper gum line or even the upper incisors. This can impede the proper movement and alignment of the teeth during orthodontic treatment. Bite blocks create additional space between the upper and lower teeth, preventing this excessive contact and allowing the braces to work more effectively.
  • Facilitating tooth movement: By creating space between the upper and lower teeth, bite blocks help facilitate the movement and alignment of the teeth. This is particularly important when it comes to the proper positioning of brackets and wires. The absence of interference from deep overbites or excessive contact allows the braces to exert the necessary forces to guide the teeth into their desired positions.
  • Preventing interference with braces: In cases where the lower teeth may come into contact with the brackets or wires of the lower braces against the upper front teeth, bite blocks act as a protective barrier. They help prevent damage to both the teeth and the orthodontic appliances, ensuring that the braces can function optimally without hindrance.
  • Enabling precise adjustments: Orthodontic treatment involves periodic adjustments to the braces to continue the progress toward proper alignment. Bite blocks play a role in enabling these adjustments by providing a controlled environment where the orthodontist can manipulate the positioning of the teeth with greater precision.
  • Enhancing comfort: For patients with overbites, braces alone may not be comfortable, and they might exacerbate the problem. Bite blocks help create a more comfortable and stable bite relationship during the orthodontic process.
  • Preventing undesirable tooth movement: Bite blocks also aid in preventing undesirable tooth movements during the course of orthodontic treatment. They guide the teeth into their correct positions, reducing the risk of relapse or unwanted shifts.
  • Integration into treatment plan: Orthodontists carefully plan the use of bite blocks as part of the overall treatment strategy. They consider the specific needs of each patient and the orthodontic issues that need to be addressed, ensuring that the use of bite blocks aligns with the overall treatment objectives.

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