A bite plate is a small dental appliance that fits over your teeth to help guide your bite into a healthier position. At Bel Air MD Dentist, we frequently recommend bite plates to preserve teeth and increase comfort. They may appear simple, but they play a crucial role in protecting your teeth and jaw from harm. People who grind or clench their teeth, experience jaw pain, or have a deep bite may require a bite plate to relieve pressure and prevent further complications.
What Is a Bite Plate?
A bite plate is a small, removable device that covers the upper or lower teeth. Its primary function is to help with the correction of bite issues while also protecting the teeth from wear and damage. Dentists use it to influence how your teeth align when you close your mouth.
A biting plate differs from other dental equipment. A retainer holds teeth in place after braces, whereas a night guard prevents teeth from grinding while asleep. A splint is commonly used to address jaw joint issues. A bite plate is primarily designed to correct bite difficulties, particularly in people with a deep bite. It relieves pressure on the front teeth and allows the back teeth to settle into a more appropriate position. Visit Bel Air MD Dentist to get a suitable bite plate.
Types of Bite Plates
Removable bite plates
These bite plates can be removed while you eat or brush your teeth. They are easy to use and clean.
Fixed bite plates
These bite plates remain linked to your teeth. Dentists use them when your bite condition requires ongoing maintenance.
Anterior bite plates
The front teeth are covered by these biting plates. They shield the back teeth from excessive pressure and help with opening the bite.
Posterior bite plates
The back teeth are covered by these bite plates. They help in directing the alignment of your upper and lower teeth.
Choosing the Right Type
Before selecting the suitable bite plate for you, the dentist thoroughly examines your teeth and bites. They examine the form of your bite, the way your teeth meet when you close your mouth, and any indications of wear or damage. To help open your bite and decrease pressure on your front teeth, the dentist may recommend an anterior bite plate if you have a deep bite.
A posterior bite plate can be more appropriate if your back teeth require additional support or direction. A detachable biting plate may be sufficient for minor bite issues because it may be removed as needed. A fixed bite plate, which remains in your mouth for continuous correction, can be suggested by the dentist if your bite problem is more severe.
The dentist also considers your daily schedule and level of comfort. Selecting a bite plate that enhances your bite, protects your teeth, and is comfortable enough for daily use is the aim.
How Bite Plates Work
Correcting Deep Bites
By slightly widening the gap between your upper and lower teeth, a bite plate can help correct a deep bite. Over time, this shift enables the back teeth to occupy a more advantageous position. Additionally, it relieves pressure on the front teeth, preventing premature wear and tear.
Reducing Teeth Grinding and Jaw Stress
Many people are unaware that they are clenching or grinding their teeth. By establishing a flat surface between teeth, a bite plate decreases the damage caused by grinding. This decreases the strain on the jaw joint and helps relax the jaw muscles.
Protecting Teeth From Wear
A bite plate helps protect teeth from chips, cracks, and uneven wear by changing the way they connect. It prolongs the health of teeth by preventing them from grinding against one another.
Benefits of Using a Bite Plate
Relief from jaw pain or discomfort
By wearing a bite plate, you can decrease the strain on your teeth and relax your jaw muscles. This frequently results in less jaw pain or tightness.
Prevention of further dental complications
Your teeth are protected from uneven wear, clenching, and grinding with a biting plate. This reduces the possibility of chipping, cracks, and other issues that may require additional care in the future.
Improved bite alignment over time
A bite plate helps to enhance the way your teeth fit together by gently moving them into a better position. This can maintain the health of your smile and make chewing simpler.
What to Expect When Wearing a Bite Plate
- To create a bite plate that perfectly fits your mouth, the dentist first creates a mold of your teeth
- The dentist makes sure the bite plate is comfortable during the fitting appointment and makes any necessary adjustments
- Speaking and swallowing may feel unusual at first, but most individuals adjust to it after a few days
- Depending on your bite issues, dentists typically advise wearing the bite plate for a few hours every day or primarily at night
- For optimal effects, it is critical to adhere to the dentist’s recommendations about the appropriate times and duration to wear the bite plate
Care and Maintenance
Cleaning Tips
Every day, use a gentle toothbrush and light soap to clean your bite plate. To get rid of any food or plaque, give it a thorough rinse with cool water. Hot water can change the bite plate’s shape, so avoid using it.
When to Remove Them
When consuming extremely hot liquids or foods, take off your bite plate. This keeps it clean and protects against damages. Additionally, remove it before brushing your teeth to ensure a thorough cleaning.
When To Contact Your Dentist For Adjustments
Contact your dentist if the bite plate starts to cause pain in your teeth or gums, feels excessively tight, or becomes loose. To keep it comfortable and functional, they can inspect and modify it. To find out if the bite plate still suits your biting requirements, schedule routine checkups with your dentist.
FAQs
Do bite plates hurt?
When wearing a bite plate for the first time, most people experience some pressure or discomfort, but this normally goes away within a few days. Once you get used to it, it will not hurt.
How long do I need to wear one?
Based on your bite issue, the dentist determines how long you must wear a bite plate. While some people may need to wear it for several hours throughout the day, others may just use it at night.
Can I eat with a bite plate in?
When eating, it is preferable to take off your bite plate. This maintains it clean and prevents sticky or hard foods from damaging it.
How do I clean my bite plate?
Use a gentle toothbrush and light soap to clean your bite plate each day. When not in use, store it in its case and wash it with cool water.
Will it permanently fix my bite?
A bite plate may not permanently correct your bite, but it can help move your teeth into a better position and protects them from harm. If you require long-term adjustments, your dentist may recommend additional procedures.
