Orthodontic appliances like bite ramps (sometimes called bite turbos or bite blocks) can feel confusing for patients. These small additions significantly change how your teeth come together, leading to questions about correct usage. Understanding the mechanics behind these devices is the first step in navigating the initial adjustment period. The purpose of these ramps is specific and central to achieving the desired outcome of your bite correction.
Understanding the Function of Bite Ramps
Bite ramps are customized structures made from a dental composite or acrylic material bonded directly onto specific teeth. They are most commonly placed on the tongue-side surface of the upper front teeth, but can also be found on the biting surfaces of the back molars. Their primary job is to create a physical separation between the upper and lower arches when you close your mouth.
This separation is necessary for two mechanical reasons: to protect the lower braces and to correct a deep overbite. When a deep bite exists, the upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth too much, risking damage to the lower brackets. By preventing full closure, the ramps allow the teeth to move freely and facilitate the vertical movement needed to level the bite.
Proper Occlusion: Are You Supposed to Bite Down
You should bite down on your bite ramps, as they are designed to accommodate this force. The ramps are placed to bear the force of your bite, and your lower teeth are intended to make contact with them. This contact is a calculated part of the treatment plan that guides necessary tooth movement.
When you bite down, the force applied encourages the intrusion, or pushing in, of the opposing teeth, which helps to correct the deep bite. Trying to bypass the ramps will slow down the intended tooth movement and delay the overall treatment timeline. While it may feel like only a few teeth are touching and the bite is unstable, this sensation is normal and indicates the ramps are doing their job.
Managing Discomfort and Daily Activities
It is common to experience soreness in the teeth and jaw muscles during the first few days as your mouth adapts to the altered bite position. This discomfort is temporary and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater can also help soothe any irritated gum tissue.
Eating will be the most significant adjustment, as the ramps prevent the back teeth from meeting, making it difficult to chew tough foods. Patients should stick to a diet of soft foods initially, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, or scrambled eggs. Cutting food into small, manageable pieces is necessary to ensure successful chewing.
The presence of the ramps, especially those behind the upper front teeth, can temporarily affect speech. You might notice a slight lisp or difficulty forming certain sounds until the tongue adapts to the new barrier. This is a short-lived issue, and most people find their speech returns to normal within a week. To protect the ramps and your other appliances, strictly avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could cause them to loosen or break.