Orthodontic treatment sometimes requires specialized tools beyond standard brackets and wires to address complex bite issues, particularly those involving the alignment of the upper and lower jaws. Among these components are devices known as turbos, which are common additions to modern braces. Turbos are a simple yet effective way for an orthodontist to manage the vertical relationship between the teeth, ensuring the overall straightening process proceeds efficiently.
Defining Orthodontic Turbos
Orthodontic turbos are small, bonded attachments designed to create a temporary separation between the upper and lower teeth. They are also referred to as bite ramps or bite blocks. These appliances are typically made from a durable, tooth-colored composite resin, the same material used for dental fillings and bonding brackets. In some cases, a small metal component may be used instead.
The placement depends on the specific bite problem being corrected. Turbos are commonly bonded to the lingual (tongue-side) surfaces of the upper front teeth, appearing as small bumps. Alternatively, they may be placed directly onto the occlusal (biting) surfaces of the back molars. Their size is just large enough to make contact with the opposing tooth when the mouth closes, allowing them to function without interfering with the braces.
The Mechanism of Bite Correction
The primary function of turbos is to physically prevent the patient from fully closing their mouth into their existing bite pattern. By acting as a barrier, they force a temporary separation between the upper and lower dental arches. This mechanical separation is crucial for “opening the bite,” necessary for correcting a deep overbite (deep occlusion) where the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth.
This intentional separation serves two main biomechanical purposes. First, it protects the brackets on the opposing arch, particularly the lower front brackets, from being dislodged by eliminating damaging contact. This protection prevents treatment delays. Second, the separation removes the physical barrier created by the deep bite, allowing the back teeth to move and erupt slightly into their correct vertical positions.
The turbo redirects the chewing force to only a few points of contact, encouraging the teeth not in contact to move more freely. This effect allows the lower arch to advance and the bite to align correctly. The light pressure applied when the patient attempts to close their jaw against the turbo helps teeth shift efficiently, accelerating the movement needed to resolve the vertical discrepancy.
Adjusting to Life With Turbos
Patients should expect a temporary adjustment period immediately after the turbos are placed, typically lasting between three to seven days. The sudden change in the bite can make eating and speaking feel awkward, as the tongue and jaw must adapt to the new contact points. Speech may be temporarily affected, sometimes resulting in a slight lisp, but this issue usually resolves as the mouth muscles adjust within a week or two.
Managing initial discomfort is best achieved with a temporary diet of soft foods, since only a few teeth will be making contact for chewing. Foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and soft pasta are recommended to minimize pressure on the new appliances. Cutting food into small, bite-sized pieces also helps patients chew more effectively with their back teeth. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to manage any mild soreness that may arise during the first few days.
Maintenance requires good oral hygiene, similar to caring for braces, to keep the areas around the turbos clean. Patients must carefully brush the turbos and the teeth they are bonded to, as plaque can accumulate around the edges. Turbos are a temporary component of the treatment, typically worn for six to twelve months until the deep bite is sufficiently corrected. Once the orthodontist determines the bite is corrected and the brackets are no longer at risk, the turbos are easily removed using the same dental tools used to take off the brackets.