The TheraBite Jaw Motion Rehabilitation System is a portable device designed to treat trismus, the inability to open the mouth normally. Trismus or limited jaw mobility, may make it difficult for you to chew, bite, swallow, talk, kiss or maintain good health. According to Atos Medical, the manufactures of the TheraBite system, this home rehabilitation device is the only system available which provides patients with anatomically correct jaw motion.
Causes Of Trismus
Trismus affects people of all ages, including infants. The condition is related to joint damage, scarring and muscle fibrosis, which can be caused by temporomandibular joint disorder, head and neck radiation, surgery, stroke, trauma or aging. Conventional treatments for trismus include physical therapy, stretching, range-of-motion exercises, muscle relaxants and the use of stacked tongue depressors to gradually open the jaw wider.
How It Works
According to the website, the TheraBite Jaw Motion Rehabilitation System uses repetitive stretching and passive motion to restore flexibility and mobility of the jaw musculature, associated joints and connective tissues. Using the device several times a day provides an average sustainable gain of 1 to 1.5 mm of jaw opening mobility per week. This system is available is pediatric and adult sizes.
Treatment Exercises
Before you start using your TheraBite system, your doctor or dentist should prescribe an exercise program that fits your specific abilities. The exercise program commonly used is the 7-7-7; seven stretches held for seven seconds and performed seven times per day.
To perform the 7-7-7, remove the tape from the bite pad and place the pad on the mouthpiece of the device. Place the mouthpiece between your teeth. Squeeze the lever of the device gently until you reach the point of resistance. Hold for seven seconds. Close your mouth slowly and then pause for seven seconds. Repeat. If you have muscle and/or joint pain, your exercise program may include longer stretches.
Benefits
Users of the TheraBite system are said to have increased range of motion, strengthening of weakened muscles, improved jaw and joint function and a reduction in pain and swelling. These benefits are achieved through diligent use of the device on a daily basis. However, many users of the device are able to decrease the number of exercise sessions to once or twice per day, without losing previously gained jaw opening mobility.
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