A bite test, also known as a bite registration, is an important step in the process of creating dentures. It involves taking impressions of the patient’s upper and lower jaws in order to properly align the dentures for a comfortable, natural fit.
Why is a bite test needed?
Getting the bite right is crucial for denture comfort and function. Dentures that don’t properly fit the mouth can cause pain, sores, and difficulty eating and speaking. A bite test captures the unique shape and position of the patient’s upper and lower jaws so the dentures can be custom-made to fit correctly.
During a bite test, the dentist checks:
- How the upper and lower teeth fit together (the occlusion)
- The space between the upper and lower jaws (the vertical dimension)
- The relative position of the jaws (the centric relation)
This information is used to set up the denture teeth in the ideal position for proper chewing and a natural appearance.
When is a bite test done?
A bite test is typically performed:
- During the initial fitting appointment for new dentures
- When relining or rebasing existing dentures
- If alterations are needed on ill-fitting dentures
The test has to be carried out with the patient present so the dentist can check the fit and occlusion. It may need to be repeated several times to ensure accuracy.
How is a bite test performed?
A dental bite test involves three main steps:
- Taking preliminary upper and lower impressions
- Taking a wax bite registration
- Trying in the evaluation dentures
1. Preliminary impressions
The dentist first takes impressions of the gums and any remaining teeth in the upper and lower jaws. This gives an initial template for designing the dentures. Alginate impression material is scooped into a tray and seated over the teeth/gums to get an imprint.
2. Wax bite registration
With the preliminary impressions, the lab makes temporary record bases and occlusal (bite) rims. These are tried in the mouth to determine the optimal position and shape for the final dentures. The bite rims are made of moldable wax, allowing the dentist to adjust the height and alignment until the bite feels comfortable.
Once this “bite” is established, the dentist instructs the patient to close their jaws in a natural biting motion to imprint the position in the wax. This “registers” the correct vertical dimension and centric relation of the jaws.
3. Evaluation dentures
The wax rims are sent back to the dental lab along with the bite registration. Based on this, a lab technician sets up a trial set of complete dentures in acrylic. At the next appointment, these “evaluation dentures” are assessed in the mouth for fit, comfort, and appearance.
The dentist checks the bite alignment, assesses the patient’s speech, and makes any necessary adjustments. Several rounds of bite testing may be required until the dentures are refined for an optimal fit.
What materials are used?
Common materials used for bite tests and fabricating trial dentures include:
- Alginate – An elastic gel-like material used to take preliminary dental impressions.
- Impression compound – A wax-like substance used for bite registration.
- Zinc oxide eugenol – A paste mixture used for bite registration.
- Acrylic – The plastic resin used to make evaluation dentures.
Do bite tests hurt?
A properly performed bite test should not hurt. The dentist will ensure the bite rims and evaluation dentures are comfortable in your mouth. Let your dentist know immediately if anything feels uncomfortable or painful during the fitting process.
You may experience some minor gum sensitivity or tenderness from impressions and fittings. Oral numbing gels are sometimes used for extra comfort. Any discomfort is temporary and should subside quickly after the dentures are removed.
Results of a good bite test
When done correctly, a bite test determines the ideal parameters for constructing dentures tailored to your mouth. Benefits of a good bite registration include:
- Proper alignment of upper and lower dentures
- Comfortable chewing and biting
- Natural-looking smile
- Clear, easy speech
- Reduced risk of sore spots from poor fit
This helps ensure your new dentures will be comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.
Do dentures require multiple bite tests?
It’s common to need more than one bite test during the denture fabrication process. Reasons include:
- The initial test yields unsatisfactory denture fit or appearance.
- Subsequent adjustments to the dentures alter the bite alignment.
- Significant time lapses between appointments require re-testing the bite.
- Ongoing changes in the gums and bone require new impressions.
- New dentures are needed due to loss or breakage.
Your dentist may recommend repeat bite tests every several years to maintain proper denture fit as your mouth changes. Don’t hesitate to request a re-test if your current dentures feel loose or uncomfortable.
Is a bite test mandatory for dentures?
While bite tests aren’t legally required, they are considered mandatory by dental best practices. The American Dental Association and most dentists agree that bite registration is a vital part of quality denture care.
Attempting to fabricate dentures without bite testing almost always yields a poor fit, requiring remakes and adjustments. Registering the bite upfront saves considerable time and cost compared to redoing ill-fitting dentures.
Some key benefits of bite testing for denture patients include:
- Greater comfort, function, and aesthetics
- Reduced chair time for adjustments
- Faster adaptation period
- Lower cost compared to remakes
- Higher patient satisfaction
While technically optional, bite tests are considered a necessity for optimal denture therapy by most dental professionals.
What happens if you skip the bite test?
It is possible, though not ideal, to skip the bite test when fabricating dentures. However, this often leads to:
- Poorly aligned upper and lower dentures
- Excessive occlusal (biting) force
- Premature contact between upper and lower teeth
- Incorrect vertical dimension
- Pain and soreness when chewing
- Difficulty eating and speaking
- Frequent adjustments to improve fit
- Reduced durability of the dentures
In essence, omitting a bite test lowers the chance of getting a comfortable, well-functioning set of dentures. Most dentists will insist on bite registration to provide high-quality denture therapy.
Conclusion
A bite test is a key step in crafting custom dentures for a patient. It registers the precise relationship of the upper and lower jaws needed to fabricate well-fitting dentures. Multiple tests may be needed to perfect the bite alignment during the fabrication process.
Bite registration allows dentists to create dentures tailored to the individual mouth. While technically optional, bite tests are considered mandatory for ensuring denture comfort, function, and durability. Patients are strongly advised not to skip this vital step in successful denture treatment.