Features of Therabite Jaw Motion Rehab System
- Anatomically correct: A unique feature of TheraBite Jaw Motion is its ability to follow the natural curved motion of the jaw. The patented curved track of the TheraBite Jaw System guides the mandible along an anatomically correct pathway whilst stretching and strengthening the surrounding musculature
- Patient-controlled: When using the TheraBite system, the patient is in complete control. Speed and opening range can be directly adjusted by the patient, using manual force, or the Fine Adjustment Knob. It helps to reduce anxiety levels and improve compliance.
- Portable: TheraBite Jaw Motion is lightweight and durable. It can be stored in the Carrying Bag provided for patients to continue their rehabilitation program wherever they go.
- Load-bearing comfort: The mouthpieces attached to the Jaw Mobilizer are designed in such a way that the load-bearing forces of stretching spread across the teeth. Together with the Bite Pads, they promote a comfortable and even stretch while protecting the teeth of the patient.
- Effective: Passive motion and stretching exercises with the TheraBite Jaw Motion are clinically proven to be an effective form of jaw therapy. It has been successfully used by thousands of patients suffering from more than 30 different conditions, ranging from post-radiation trismus to orofacial pain.
What does this Jaw Motion Rehabilitation System include?
- (1) The Jaw Mobilizer [Fig. 1] including the following parts:
- a) Fine Adjustment Knob
- b) Lever
- c) Range Setting Arm
- d) Upper Mouthpiece
- e) Lower Mouthpiece
Caution: Do not attempt to detach the Mouthpieces from the device; this can cause failure during use.
- (4) The Bite Pads (Fig. 2) are self-adhesive pads intended to protect the user's teeth. They are available in three versions: Regular, Edentulous (toothless, thicker cushioning for customized trimming) and Pediatric. Clinicians may, according to their independent medical judgment, stack or trim the Bite Pads for extra protection
- (1) The Hand-Aid (Fig. 3) is a tool designed to hold the Lever down and maintain opening during stretching exercises.
- (30) The Range of Motion Scale (Fig. 4) is used to monitor the progress of the rehabilitation program. An area to record your progress is printed on the reverse side of the scale and an Exercise Log comes with your device to track your progress. The Range of Motion Scale is a disposable product and should not be cleaned.
- (1) Carrying bag
- (1) Instructions for use
- (1) Patient progress log
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How does TheraBite Jaw Motion Rehabilitation System works?
The TheraBite system is a hand-operated system with adjustable range that is designed to assist users to improve the range of motion and strength of the jaw. The jaw mobilizer is held in the hand during use, with the mouthpieces placed between the upper and lower front teeth. Pressure on the Lever, applied by the user, provides either opening force or resistance to closing. [Fig. 6] The TheraBite system utilizes repetitive passive motion and stretching. The jaw mobilizer guides the mandible (lower jaw) along an anatomically correct, curved pathway during opening and closing movements. [Fig. 6] The TheraBite system can help achieve:
- Proper jaw opening:
- by stretching connective tissues
- by mobilizing joints
- by strengthening muscles across their full range of motion
- Reduction in pain and inflammation
- Passive mobilization of the joint
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Research has indicated that mobilization is beneficial in the management of joint disorders. Motion is necessary to prevent the degeneration of cartilage, the layer of tissue that lines most of the joint surfaces. In many cases, movement may stimulate joint healing and reduce pain and swelling. By stretching and relaxing muscles, gradual mobilization exercises can help individuals with muscle pain to improve their range of motion. Passive motion can also provide therapeutic advantages, especially following an operation.
When to use this system?
- Arthritis
- Arthroscopy
- Arthro-fibrosis
- Disuse Atrophy
- Joint Replacement
- Facial Muscle Disorders
- Meniscectomy
- Radiation Therapy
- Reconstructive Surgery
- TMJ/TMD
- Trauma
- Trismus
Frequently Bought Together
How to use the TheraBite system?
How to put on the Bite Pads?
The TheraBite system comes with self-adhesive bite pads to protect the user’s teeth. The clinician may, in the exercise of his or her independent clinical judgment, stack or trim the bite pads for extra protection.
- Peel off the backing to expose the sticky surface. [Fig. 7]
- Attach one bite pad to the Upper Mouthpiece and one to the Lower Mouthpiece. [Fig. 8]
- Apply pressure with your thumb or similar means to ensure sufficient initial adhesion to the mouthpieces. Pressure and warmth under a prolonged period will make the bite pads tackier.
- To enhance adhesion of the bite pads to the mouthpieces, apply the bite pads to the mouthpieces before going to bed and leave them on overnight.
The adhesive bond created by the pressure-sensitive adhesive on the bite pads increases with time, such that the longer the bite pads sit on the mouthpieces prior to using the device, the more strongly they will tend to adhere. If the bite pads become worn, replace them with the two extra bite pads that are included with the TheraBite system. For individuals with no teeth (edentulous) or a limited number of teeth, bite pads with thick cushioning for customized trimming can be ordered separately. Bite pads for pediatric use are provided with the TheraBite system for children. Additional bite pads can also be ordered separately.
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Caution: bite pads or parts of bite pads that become loose during use might obstruct breathing. Therefore make sure that the bite pads are securely attached to the mouthpieces after trimming and bonding.
How to use the Jaw Mobilizer?
Hold the jaw mobilizer with the Lever up and with the mouthpieces inside your mouth. Squeeze the Lever gently to move the Lower Mouthpiece downward, following the natural motion of the jaw.
How to use the Fine Adjustment Knob?
The Fine Adjustment Knob can be used to slow or stop the motion created by the jaw mobilizer.
- Turn the knob all the way in (counter/anti-clockwise) to stop the Lever in the highest position. [Fig. 9a]
- While squeezing gently, turn the knob out (clockwise) to allow the lower mouthpieces to move down slowly. [Fig. 9b]
- The Lever may be released at any time without turning the Fine Adjustment Knob.
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How to use the Hand-Aid?
The hand-aid is a tool designed to hold the Lever down and maintain opening during stretching or isometric exercises. To install the Hand-Aid:
- Hold the jaw mobilizer in your left hand, and loosen the Fine Adjustment Knob so that the Lever can be squeezed all the way down.
- Take the hand-aid in your right hand with the narrow groove on top.
- Squeeze the Lever down, and place the open side of the hand-aid over the lowest part of the Lever. [Fig. 10a]
- Rotate the hand-aid one-quarter turn clockwise, so that the handle groove is over the handle, and release the squeeze.
- To use, slide the hand-aid towards the mouth. [Fig. 10b]
- To release, push the hand-aid away.
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How to use the Range of Motion Scale?
The range of motion scale is designed to make mandibular motion measurement quick and easy. An area to record your progress is printed on the reverse side of the scale and a progress log comes with your device to track your progress.
To measure the Maximal Incisal Opening [Fig. 11]
- Open your mouth as widely as possibly without discomfort.
- Place the range of motion scale so that the notch rests on the edge of a lower incisor (tooth).
- Rotate the range of motion scale until it contacts an upper incisor.
- Take the reading at the point of contact.
- Record the measurement on the reverse side of the range of motion scale or in the separate patient progress log.
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To measure Lateral Movement [Fig. 12]
- Rest the range of motion scale against the lower incisors with the teeth in gentle occlusion (the upper and lower teeth close together).
- Align the arrow with an interproximal space (space between two upper teeth). [Fig. 12a] • Move the mandible laterally (side-to-side), and read the measurement on the Lateral Scale opposite the new position of the space. [Fig. 12b & 12c] • Record your progress on the reverse side of the range of motion scale or in the separate patient progress log.
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Getting started:
Adjust the Fine Adjustment Knob so that the Lever moves freely. Let the Lever come all the way up.
- Hold the jaw mobilizer in the hand most comfortable for you.
- Relax and open your mouth.
- Place the mouthpieces between your upper and lower teeth, inside your lips.
- Your front teeth should just touch the inside rim of the Upper Mouthpiece.
- Be careful to hold the jaw mobilizer level. Gently squeeze the Lever to push the Lower Mouthpiece down against your lower teeth.
- Release at any time by relaxing your hand. Always begin and end each session by recording your beginning and ending measurements in the patient progress log. This will give you an accurate assessment of your progress, and will guide your clinician in directing your treatment.
TheraBite User Manual
How to clean the device?
- Use water and dish soap to clean the TheraBite Jaw Mobilizer and Hand-Aid. Rinse well, shake off excess water, and let dry.
- After cleaning, examine the Bite Pads and replace them if necessary.
- Note: The Mouthpieces are made of material that tends to retain moisture. Therefore make sure that the Mouthpieces are completely dry before replacing the Bite Pads and also before use.
- Do not soak the TheraBite Jaw Mobilizer in any liquid or attempt to wash it in a dishwasher.
- Failure to follow the above may change the product properties and result in malfunction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can benefit from using the TheraBite system?
The TheraBite system is recommended for patients who have limited jaw mobility due to surgery, radiation therapy, or other medical conditions such as trismus, TMJ disorders, or muscle tension. It can also be used to help prevent jaw muscle contracture in patients who are at risk.
How long does it take to see results with the TheraBite system?
The amount of time it takes to see results with the TheraBite system can vary depending on the individual patient's condition and level of mobility. However, most patients typically see improvements within a few weeks of starting the therapy.
Is the TheraBite system painful to use?
The TheraBite system should not be painful to use, but patients may experience some discomfort or soreness in their jaw muscles after the therapy. It is important to start slowly and increase the amount of jaw opening gradually to prevent discomfort.
Is the TheraBite system easy to use at home?
The TheraBite system is designed to be easy to use at home, and patients can use it independently with minimal assistance. However, patients should receive instruction from a healthcare provider on how to use the system correctly and safely before starting therapy.
Are there any side effects or risks associated with using the TheraBite system?
There are generally no serious risks or side effects associated with using the TheraBite system. However, patients may experience some discomfort or soreness in their jaw muscles after the therapy. It is important to start slowly and increase the amount of jaw opening gradually to prevent discomfort. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as bone fractures or severe osteoporosis, may need to avoid using the therapy. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider before starting therapy with the TheraBite system.
