Wearing a bite plate can initially present a shift in daily routines, particularly concerning eating. This article aims to provide practical guidance on how to comfortably and effectively manage meals while wearing this orthodontic appliance. Adjusting to a bite plate can be challenging at first, but with specific strategies and patience, eating can become a more manageable experience. Understanding these adjustments can help individuals maintain their nutritional intake and oral health throughout their treatment.
Initial Eating Adjustments
The first few days or weeks with a new bite plate often involve a period of adjustment. You might experience some initial discomfort or soreness, which is a normal part of adapting to the appliance. Some individuals notice a temporary increase in saliva production. Speech may also be temporarily affected, sometimes resulting in a slight lisp, as the tongue learns to navigate around the bite plate. These sensations typically diminish within a few days as your mouth becomes accustomed to the appliance.
It is important to approach eating with patience during this initial phase. The bite plate is designed to hold your back teeth apart, meaning most chewing will primarily involve your front teeth. This change in bite mechanics requires a new approach to chewing, which improves with practice. While it might feel awkward at first, consistency in wearing the bite plate, even during meals, helps the mouth adapt more quickly.
Recommended Food Choices and Preparation
Selecting appropriate foods can significantly ease the eating process with a bite plate. Initially, focusing on soft foods that require minimal chewing is beneficial. Options like yogurt, smoothies, protein shakes, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs are often recommended. Soups, soft-cooked pasta, and easily flaked fish also provide nourishing choices that are gentle on your teeth and appliance.
Certain foods should be avoided to prevent damage to the bite plate or discomfort. Sticky items such as taffy, caramels, or chewing gum can adhere to the appliance and potentially dislodge it. Hard or crunchy foods like nuts, ice, hard candies, and crunchy vegetables or fruits can also pose a risk of breaking or damaging the bite plate. Preparing your food by cutting it into smaller, more manageable pieces can also make a substantial difference, reducing the effort required for chewing.
Effective Eating Techniques
Developing specific eating techniques can greatly improve comfort and efficiency with a bite plate. Taking smaller bites of food is advisable, as this reduces the amount of chewing needed per mouthful. Chewing slowly and deliberately allows for better control and helps prevent accidental biting of the cheeks or tongue. Since your back teeth may not fully contact due to the bite plate, you will primarily use your front teeth for initial biting and some chewing.
Managing increased saliva production, which can occur when first wearing the appliance, often improves naturally as your mouth adjusts. For speech, practicing by reading aloud or speaking more frequently can help your tongue and mouth adapt. While some sounds, like ‘s’ and ‘th’, might be more challenging initially, consistent wear and practice usually lead to clearer pronunciation within a few days to a week.
Cleaning Your Bite Plate After Meals
Maintaining proper hygiene of your bite plate after meals is important for oral health and the appliance’s longevity. After eating, you should remove the bite plate and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any food particles. Avoid using hot water, as it can distort or warp the acrylic material of the bite plate.
Following rinsing, gently brush your bite plate using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Some sources suggest using a small amount of toothpaste, while others recommend avoiding it or using liquid soap. Regular brushing helps prevent the accumulation of plaque and food debris. For a more thorough cleaning, some bite plates can be soaked periodically in denture cleaning tablets or a diluted mixture of white vinegar and water, but always consult with your dental professional for specific recommendations for your appliance.