Bite blocks are used to train your mouth muscles to stay in place after you get braces, and using them can also help speed up the time it takes for you to get used to having braces on. So how long does it take before you don’t notice the bite blocks braces anymore? Everyone reacts differently, but if you start noticing that you’re not really thinking about your bite blocks anymore and focusing on other things instead, then congratulations – you’ve broken through!
5 Common Questions About Bite Blocks
When you’re first introduced to bite blocks, it can be hard to figure out how best to use them. Here are five of our most common questions about bite blocks and how to use them properly: 1. Do I Have To Use Bite Blocks Every Time I Brush My Teeth? If you’re only using a bite block on certain occasions, try placing it in your mouth and biting down every time you brush your teeth (and while doing so, practice taking deep breaths through your nose). Over time, that sensation should become second nature—you may even find yourself wanting to bite down on your teeth even when there isn’t a device present! 2. How Often Should I Use Bite Blocks And For How Long?
Typical Amount of Time to Adjust to Bite Blocks
The amount of time it takes to adjust to bite blocks will vary from person to person. Some people feel like they are ready for biting within a few weeks, while others take longer. The truth is that you might never feel completely ready for biting on your braces and bite blocks, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it or shouldn’t try. Bite down as often as possible—even if it’s only for a few seconds at first—and get used to having something in your mouth.
Tips for Accepting a Bite Block
When a patient is getting used to having braces and needs to be extra careful with their bite, a bite block is usually recommended. The device will fit over your regular orthodontic retainer, giving you an even more customized way to make sure your teeth are aligned properly. When should you ask your orthodontist about bite blocks for braces? If you
When Should I Ask My Orthodontist About Bite Blocks?
The first time you see your orthodontist, he or she will likely ask whether you’re having trouble with jaw pain and/or teeth grinding. If you answer yes to either question, your doctor will want to take a closer look at what’s going on. The exam might include x-rays and photos of your teeth and mouth. But if you find that even with bite blocks, you still get sore or experience teeth grinding or jaw pain, it may be worth consulting an oral surgeon for options like a splint for nighttime use.
Common Side Effects from Bite Block Use
Biting down on bite blocks can cause a variety of different side effects, including headaches and sore jaw muscles. In addition, your speech may become slightly slurred at first. However, as long as you’re properly fitted for them, these issues will disappear over time. Usually within one or two weeks, you’ll be able to adjust to using bite blocks while talking and chewing normally with no issue at all.
How Bite Block Use Helps with TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder)
Normally, we carry out biting and chewing functions automatically. When you wear bite blocks with braces, it helps to remind your jaw muscles to fire more effectively and allows you to better understand what proper chewing feels like. This can often take some practice time but is a good way to get used to using your bite blocks regularly in an otherwise uncomfortable situation. Once you’ve adjusted yourself to wearing bite blocks for certain foods, you will begin building awareness of how other types of food should feel as well. Over time, as you make proper use of bite blocks, less strain will be placed on your teeth and jaws during daily functions like eating and speaking because your muscles won’t be compensating by straining into maladaptive positions anymore.
What If I Want to Talk While Wearing a Bite Block?
This probably won’t surprise you, but a bite block in your mouth will make it hard to talk. The first few times that you wear a bite block, you may feel like every word that comes out of your mouth is followed by three more. That’s okay; don’t panic. When wearing braces, especially in front of people you care about or on a first date, focus on smiling and nodding instead of talking—it’ll be fine. In fact, your teeth will likely be moving so much that there really won’t be any way for you to carry on a conversation anyway. If you do have something important to say (or need to ask an important question), just remove your bite block and get it over with quickly.
Care and Maintenance for Bite Blanks
As you get used to wearing your bite blanks, you’ll likely find them to be quite comfortable. However, over time, they might start to feel loose and need readjusting from time to time. In order to ensure that they stay where they’re supposed to be, it is important that you take proper care of them. First of all, always store your bite blanks in a safe place when not in use. Also, clean them after each use by brushing away any food particles or debris with a small brush or cloth and regular toothpaste. This will ensure optimal dental hygiene while also prolonging their life expectancy by preventing buildup and plaque build up on your teeth and bite blanks.
