Are you suffering from sleep apnea and in need of assistance? Fortunately, there is help available. There are sleep specialists who have a focus on treatments like sleep apnea through the use of a range of treatments. This includes oral appliance to be worn at night. Oral appliances can be used to move your jaw forward to stop airway blockage. Since harmful bacteria can grow on them while you sleep, it’s vital to care for the appliance properly. Read on to learn how to clean them to avoid dental issues.
Tip #1: Brush and Floss Before Bed
If you don’t already have a nighttime dental routine, it’s time to start brushing and flossing before bed. Otherwise, food, plaque, and bacteria will stay stuck against your teeth and gums all night while you sleep. This raises the risk of cavities or gum disease, which get worse over time. Taking good care of your mouth and nightguard can prevent problems.
Tip #2: Scrub Your Appliance Every Morning
Germs like to grow at night because nothing washes them away. They can build up on your mouthguard just like on your teeth and should be cleaned regularly. Use a soft-bristled brush and mild dish soap, or vinegar and water, to gently scrub your oral appliance and remove unwanted particles. Avoid using toothpaste because it can scratch the surface.
Tip #3: Soak Your Appliance Weekly
It’s wise to soak your mouthguard with a denture cleaner tablet at least once a week, although some prefer to do this daily. Fill the storage container with water, drop in the tablet, and leave your appliance in the solution for no more than 15 minutes. Then, empty the water, dry off the mouthguard, and you’re done.
Tip #4: Cleanse the Storage Box
The container for your appliance can collect bacteria that lead to tooth decay and oral infections. To prevent this, clean it weekly with soap and water, then dry it with a paper towel. These containers can break over time, so you may need to replace them occasionally. This helps keep your nightguard fresh when you use it at night.
By following these easy steps to care for your oral appliance, you can ensure it stays in great shape and lasts for years. With proper maintenance, you’ll enjoy the benefits of your appliance for a long time to come!
About the Practice
Stop Snoring Lawton is a practice that goes above and beyond to enhance patients’ quality of life by helping them get a peaceful night’s rest. Led by Dr. David J. Drummond, they offer a range of helpful services, including dental appliances to help you sleep through the night. He provides a variety of services to address sleep apnea, including oral appliances. If you would like to learn more about dental appliances at Stop Snoring Lawton or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Drummond, you can visit their website or call their office at (770) 710-5268.