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Bite block (mouth prop)
Also called: mouth prop, bite prop, McKesson bite block
A rubber or plastic wedge the patient bites on to rest the jaw open.
A bite block sits between the back teeth on the side opposite the work. It lets the patient relax the jaw muscles while staying open for a long procedure. Many have a string or floss tie so they can be pulled out easily.
How to spot it
- A ridged rubber or silicone wedge, often in graduated sizes, sometimes with a ring for floss.
What it is used for
- Long procedures: extractions, crown preps, root canals.
Safety and care
- Single-use or heat-sterilizable depending on the product; follow the maker's instructions.
- Many offices tie floss to small bite blocks so they can be retrieved; follow your office protocol.
Related
Sources: Majid M. Oral Surgery Lec. 9+10: Basic surgical instruments. Al-Mustansiriyah University