A bite block, sometimes called a bite turbo or bite ramp, is a small piece of material, often acrylic or cement, fixed to the chewing surface of a back tooth or the inside of a front tooth. Orthodontists use these devices to prevent the upper and lower teeth from fully closing and contacting each other. This separation protects brackets and wires from damage and creates space to correct alignment issues like deep bites or crossbites. Losing a bite block is common during orthodontic treatment, and while not an immediate crisis, it requires prompt professional attention.
Immediate Actions After the Bite Block Falls Out
The moment a bite block detaches, locate and secure the piece if it is a solid acrylic component (many are cement that crumbles away). If found, store it safely to show your orthodontist, but do not try to put it back into your mouth. Next, carefully inspect the area where the block was attached and the opposing teeth. Look for sharp edges, loose wires, or damaged brackets that may be poking the inside of your cheek or tongue.
Immediately contact your orthodontic office to explain the situation and schedule an urgent appointment for replacement or repair. Even without discomfort, the absence of the block can disrupt your treatment plan. You must not attempt to re-glue or fix the bite block yourself with household adhesives or dental repair kits, as this can damage the tooth or surrounding appliances. Getting a professional repair quickly ensures your orthodontic progress remains on track.
Temporary Management While Waiting for Repair
Since an emergency appointment may not be immediately available, you will need to manage your bite and comfort until you can see your orthodontist. The most significant change will be to your diet, limiting it to soft foods that require minimal chewing force. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could further damage exposed brackets or cause discomfort to unprotected teeth. Cut food into very small pieces and chew slowly, focusing on the side of your mouth that still has the bite block, if one remains.
You may experience soreness or sensitivity where the teeth are now meeting, especially if they are hitting a bracket on the opposing arch. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can effectively manage this discomfort. If the exposed area of your gum or cheek becomes irritated, rinsing your mouth several times a day with a warm salt water solution can help soothe the tissue and promote healing. This temporary adjustment period focuses on protecting existing appliances and minimizing unexpected tooth movement until the professional repair is completed.
Why Timely Replacement is Critical
Leaving a bite block out for an extended period can quickly undermine the mechanics of your orthodontic treatment. The block’s primary function is to create disclusion, or separation, between the upper and lower teeth, allowing specific tooth movements to occur without interference. Without this barrier, opposing teeth may come into full contact, potentially halting desired movement or causing teeth to shift in an unintended direction. This unintended movement can lead to complications that require additional time to correct, prolonging your overall treatment duration.
The absence of the block also removes the protection it offered to your other appliances, particularly the brackets previously shielded from direct impact. When you bite down, the unrestrained force can shear off brackets or bend wires, necessitating additional repair appointments. Furthermore, biting down on the enamel of an opposing tooth can lead to abnormal wear or microfractures on the unprotected surface, a risk that a timely replacement appointment will eliminate.