You may have heard of various appliances like palatal expanders, rubber bands, and separators. But have you ever come across the term “bite turbos”? These small devices are often used in conjunction with braces to align the bite and achieve a healthy bite position. This article will explore bite turbos, exploring what they are, how they work, and their significance in orthodontic treatment.
What Are Bite Turbos for Braces?
Bite turbos, also known as bite bumpers, are tiny orthodontic appliances that serve as buffers between the upper and lower teeth. They are designed to address specific bite issues, such as deep overbites, where the top teeth overlap significantly with the bottom teeth. Limiting the overlap between the two sets of teeth helps align the bite and create a more harmonious relationship between the upper and lower jaws.
Bite turbos can be made from different materials, including metal or a gel-like substance that hardens on the teeth. Depending on the individual’s specific needs, they may be placed on the inner tongue-side surfaces of the front teeth or the cusps of the back molars. These appliances are typically used temporarily during treatment, but they produce long-lasting results.
The Purpose of Bite Turbos
Bite turbos serve multiple purposes in orthodontic treatment. Firstly, they help align the top and bottom teeth properly, ensuring that they come together without excessive overlap. This alignment improves the appearance of the smile and enhances the functionality of the bite.
Also, It acts as a protective mechanism, preventing patients from biting down on lower brackets and potentially damaging them. By reducing the risk of broken or loose brackets, bite turbos enable smoother treatment progress and minimize the need for emergency visits to the orthodontist’s office.
Placing Bite Turbos for Braces
The process of placing bite turbos involves careful evaluation and precise application by an orthodontist. If metal bite turbos are used, the orthodontist will determine the optimal location for the turbos and bond them to the teeth using a bonding material. The material is then cured using a blue light, ensuring secure adherence.
On the other hand, if made from a gel-like consistency are used, the material is dispensed onto the teeth and shaped to form a bumper. Once shaped, it is cured with a blue light to set the material in place.
Adjusting to Bite Turbos for Braces
Eating with bite turbos may initially feel different and require some adjustment. Depending on the location of the turbos, either the front teeth or the back teeth may not come together completely when chewing food.
To facilitate the transition, it is recommended to eat soft food during the first week with It. Foods like mashed potatoes, mac ‘n’ cheese, pasta, applesauce, smoothies, yogurt, and soft meats can be easily consumed during this period.
Read More: Drinks to Avoid with Braces – A Comprehensive Guide
Duration of Bite Turbo Usage
The duration for which bite turbos are needed varies from patient to patient. Generally, they are required until the overbite has been corrected sufficiently, allowing the upper and lower teeth to move freely without the risk of breakage. This correction process typically takes around 6 to 9 months. Once the bite has been aligned and the desired results have been achieved, the orthodontist will remove the bite turbos. The removal process is simple and painless, usually involving the use of a polishing stone to gently take off the turbos.
Benefits of Bite Turbos
Bite turbos offer several benefits in orthodontic treatment. Firstly, they play a crucial role in aligning the bite and improving the overall functionality of the teeth. By reducing excessive overlap, It creates a more harmonious relationship between the upper and lower jaws, enabling proper chewing and speech. Additionally, they protect the braces from damage by preventing patients from biting down on the lower brackets. This protection minimizes the risk of broken or loose brackets, ensuring smoother treatment progress and reducing the need for additional appointments.
Consultation and Individualized Treatment
The use of bite turbos in orthodontic treatment is determined on a case-by-case basis. During a complimentary consultation with an experienced orthodontist, your specific needs and treatment plan will be evaluated. If this is deemed necessary for achieving optimal results, the orthodontist will explain their purpose and provide detailed information about the appliance. Rest assured, the orthodontic team at our office is dedicated to providing personalized care and assisting you throughout your smile journey.
Related Article:
How to put Rubber Bands on Braces | 15 Step-by-Step Instructions
Bottom Line
Bite turbos are valuable orthodontic appliances that play a significant role in aligning the bite and improving the functionality of the teeth. By limiting excessive overlap and protecting the braces from damage, these small devices contribute to the success of orthodontic treatment.