Bite Blocks: Understanding Breakage, Causes, and Prevention

Can Bite Blocks Break?

Yes, bite blocks can indeed break or become damaged. While designed to withstand considerable forces, they are not indestructible and can succumb to factors such as excessive biting pressure, material fatigue, or accidental trauma.

What Are Bite Blocks?

Bite blocks, also known as occlusal guards, splints, or orthodontic bite turbos/ramps, are specialized dental devices used for a variety of purposes. Their primary function is to create space or protect dental structures by preventing the upper and lower teeth from coming into full contact. Depending on their application, they can range from small, discrete additions to specific teeth to larger, removable appliances that cover an entire arch.

Why Are Bite Blocks Used?

The applications of bite blocks are diverse and critical in various dental and medical contexts:

• Orthodontic Treatment: In orthodontics, small bite blocks (often called "bite turbos" or "bite ramps") are bonded to the biting surfaces of back teeth or behind front teeth. Their purpose is to prevent the patient from biting down fully, which can protect braces from being dislodged or broken, help correct deep bites, or facilitate specific tooth movements.
• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Larger, custom-fitted bite splints are often used to manage symptoms of TMJ disorders, bruxism (teeth grinding), and clenching. They help reduce strain on the jaw joint, protect teeth from wear, and relax jaw muscles.
• Dental Procedures: During certain dental or medical procedures (e.g., oral surgery, intubation), bite blocks can be used to keep the mouth open, protect the patient's teeth and jaw, and prevent accidental biting down on instruments or tubes.
• Protection of Dental Restorations: They can be used to protect new fillings, crowns, or veneers from opposing tooth contact during the healing phase or in cases of severe bruxism.

Materials and Durability

The material composition of a bite block is a primary determinant of its durability and how it might fail. Common materials include:

• Acrylic Resins: Often used for custom-made splints and night guards. Acrylic can be rigid or semi-rigid. While strong, prolonged stress or sharp impacts can cause cracking or fracturing.
• Polycarbonate: A tough, transparent plastic sometimes used for orthodontic bite turbos. It offers good impact resistance but can still chip or wear down over time.
• Silicone or Thermoplastic Materials: Softer, more flexible materials often found in over-the-counter boil-and-bite guards or some orthodontic bite blocks. While less prone to shattering, they can deform, tear, or wear through more quickly.
• Composites: Dental composite resins are frequently used for bonded bite turbos. These materials are designed to be durable but can chip or debond under excessive force.

Factors Contributing to Bite Block Breakage

Several factors can lead to the damage or breakage of a bite block:

• Excessive Biting Force: This is the most common cause.
  • Bruxism (Teeth Grinding/Clenching): Chronic, involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, especially during sleep, exerts immense pressure that can wear down, crack, or fracture any bite block material.
  • Chewing Hard Foods: Biting into very hard foods (e.g., ice, nuts, hard candies) can create concentrated stress points that exceed the material's strength, leading to chips or cracks.
  • Accidental Bites: Unintentional hard bites, especially if the bite block is not perfectly aligned.
• Material Fatigue and Wear: Over time, even without acute trauma, the constant stress of chewing and clenching can lead to microscopic cracks that propagate, eventually causing the material to fail. Softer materials may simply wear through.
• Improper Fit: A poorly fitted bite block can create uneven pressure distribution, leading to stress concentrations in certain areas that are more prone to fracture.
• Accidental Impact/Misuse: Dropping a removable bite block, stepping on it, or exposing it to extreme temperatures can cause damage.
• Chemical Exposure: Certain harsh cleaning agents or solvents not recommended by your dental professional can degrade the material over time, making it brittle and more susceptible to breakage.
• Design Flaws: While rare with professionally made devices, inherent weaknesses in the design or fabrication process could contribute to premature failure.

Signs of a Damaged or Broken Bite Block

It's important to regularly inspect your bite block for signs of wear or damage. Look for:

• Visible Cracks or Fractures: Any hairline cracks or complete breaks.
• Chips or Missing Pieces: Small or large sections of the material broken off.
• Sharp Edges: If the device feels rough or sharp against your tongue or gums, it may be chipped or broken.
• Loose Fit: If a removable bite block feels loose or dislodged, it might be deformed or broken. For bonded turbos, looseness indicates debonding.
• Discomfort or Pain: New discomfort when wearing the device, or pain in your teeth or jaw, could indicate a problem with the bite block itself.
• Changes in Occlusion: If your bite feels different when the device is in place, it could be damaged.

What to Do If Your Bite Block Breaks

If your bite block breaks or becomes damaged, it's crucial to take the following steps:

1. Stop Using It: Do not continue to use a broken or damaged bite block. Sharp edges can injure your mouth, and a compromised device may no longer provide the intended protection or correction.
2. Contact Your Dental Professional: Immediately schedule an appointment with your orthodontist, dentist, or oral surgeon. They will assess the damage and determine the best course of action.
3. Do Not Attempt Self-Repair: Glues or other adhesives are not biocompatible and can introduce toxins into your mouth. Attempting to fix it yourself can cause further damage to the device or your oral health.
4. Bring the Pieces (If Applicable): If it's a removable device and you have the broken pieces, bring them to your appointment. This can sometimes help the professional understand the nature of the break.

Preventing Bite Block Damage

While some wear and tear are inevitable, you can take steps to prolong the life of your bite block:

• Follow Professional Instructions: Adhere strictly to your dental professional's guidelines for wearing, cleaning, and caring for your specific device.
• Proper Cleaning: Use only recommended cleaning solutions or methods. Avoid abrasive toothpastes or harsh chemicals that can degrade the material.
• Safe Storage: When not in use, store removable bite blocks in their protective case, away from pets, small children, and extreme temperatures (heat can warp plastics).
• Avoid Hard Foods: If using an orthodontic bite block, be mindful of food restrictions. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, nuts, or anything that could exert excessive force.
• Address Bruxism: If you have bruxism, discuss management strategies with your dentist, as this can be a major factor in device wear.
• Regular Check-ups: Attend all scheduled dental and orthodontic appointments. Your professional can monitor the condition of your bite block and make necessary adjustments or repairs.

Conclusion

Bite blocks are vital tools in maintaining oral health and facilitating orthodontic treatment, but they are subject to the significant forces within the mouth. While designed for durability, they can break or wear down due to factors like excessive biting pressure, material fatigue, and accidental damage. Regular inspection, proper care, and prompt consultation with your dental professional if damage occurs are essential to ensure the continued effectiveness and safety of your bite block.