Bite blocks, sometimes called occlusal rests or turbos, are small structures bonded to the biting surfaces of certain teeth during orthodontic treatment. If you are experiencing discomfort or find these devices bothersome, attempting to remove them at home is strongly advised against. These appliances are carefully placed by your orthodontist, and their removal requires specialized tools and expertise to prevent damage. This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional orthodontic advice.
What Are Orthodontic Bite Blocks
Bite blocks serve a specific mechanical purpose in comprehensive orthodontic treatment, primarily to prevent damage and facilitate tooth movement. They act like stoppers, preventing the upper and lower teeth from fully coming together, which is necessary for patients with a deep overbite. When a patient has a deep bite, the lower front teeth can inadvertently strike and dislodge the upper brackets, damaging the appliance and delaying progress. The blocks lift the bite slightly, ensuring the delicate brackets and wires are protected from the strong forces of chewing. This temporary separation also creates the necessary space for certain teeth to shift into their correct positions. Bite blocks are typically constructed from a dental composite resin, similar to the material used for tooth-colored fillings, and are secured with a powerful dental adhesive. Because they are bonded with such strength, they are designed to be removed only by a professional using specific dental instruments.
The Serious Risks of Attempting At-Home Removal
The primary danger in attempting to remove bite blocks without professional supervision is the risk of causing irreparable damage to the underlying tooth enamel. Tools found at home, such as metal files, pliers, or sharp instruments, are not calibrated or sterilized for dental use and can easily fracture the composite material, leading to chipping of the block and the surrounding enamel. Scratching or chipping the enamel creates rough surfaces and microscopic defects, which significantly increases the tooth’s susceptibility to decay and long-term sensitivity.
Furthermore, the forceful prying or twisting action required to break the strong adhesive bond can easily damage or completely dislodge other orthodontic appliances. Brackets or wires can be bent or broken during a removal attempt, requiring an unscheduled, expensive repair appointment and potentially setting back the entire treatment timeline.
There is also a serious physical health risk associated with using non-dental instruments inside the mouth. Applying uncontrolled pressure can result in sudden slippage, causing lacerations, bruising, or puncture wounds to the sensitive gum tissue, cheeks, or tongue. A significant danger is the potential for aspiration or swallowing if the block or a sharp fragment breaks off unexpectedly. Inhaling a foreign object poses a severe risk of airway obstruction or lung complications. Orthodontic materials are not sterile outside of the clinical environment, introducing foreign bacteria into any accidental cuts or abrasions.
Safe Steps for Managing Discomfort and Contacting Your Orthodontist
If you are experiencing discomfort or irritation from your bite blocks, there are safe, non-destructive steps you can take to manage the symptoms before your next appointment. The edges of the composite material can sometimes feel sharp or rough against the inner cheek or tongue. Applying a small, pea-sized amount of orthodontic wax over the irritating edge can create a smooth barrier, providing immediate relief from friction.
Adjusting your diet is another effective measure for managing discomfort, particularly in the initial days following the placement of the blocks. Focusing on soft foods, such as mashed potatoes, soups, yogurt, and smoothies, reduces the force required for chewing and minimizes pressure on the newly placed appliances. Avoiding hard, sticky, or crunchy foods is advised, as these can increase discomfort and put undue stress on the dental adhesive.
If the discomfort is persistent, or if you notice the bite block has become loose, cracked, or dislodged, you should contact your orthodontic office immediately. When you call, clearly describe the problem, noting if the appliance is causing severe pain, has sharp edges, or is visibly detached from the tooth surface. The orthodontic team can then determine if an emergency appointment is necessary to correct the issue safely.
Professional Removal Process
The professional removal process utilizes controlled, specialized tools that are not available for home use. Orthodontists use instruments like a high-speed dental bur or specialized orthodontic pliers to gently chip away at the composite material and cleanly break the adhesive bond without damaging the enamel. After the block is removed, the remaining adhesive residue is carefully polished away, restoring the tooth surface to its smooth, natural state.