{"id":947,"date":"2022-02-17T20:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-02-17T20:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.coloradosleepapnea.com\/blog\/?p=947"},"modified":"2022-03-17T20:01:39","modified_gmt":"2022-03-17T20:01:39","slug":"4-tips-cleaning-oral-appliance-sleep-apnea","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/coloradosleepapnea.com\/blog\/4-tips-cleaning-oral-appliance-sleep-apnea\/","title":{"rendered":"4 Tips for Cleaning Your Oral Appliance"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"HandIf you are ready to cut ties with your CPAP, or you\u2019re new to sleep apnea therapy<\/a>, an oral appliance is an effective solution to breathe better. The custom-fit device holds your tongue and lower jaw in a comfortable position to stop interruptions in breathing caused by obstructive sleep apnea. Your oral appliance can last for years depending on how well you care for it. Here are 4 tips for cleaning your oral appliance to protect your investment.<\/p>\n

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1. Don\u2019t forget to brush and floss.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice daily, if not after every meal. However, 45% of adults admit they don\u2019t always brush before bed. If you don\u2019t reach for your toothbrush before going to sleep, you\u2019re going to need to change your bedtime routine. Food particles, plaque, and harmful bacteria will be trapped between your enamel and the oral appliance. Since your mouth is dark and moist, bacteria can get out of control quickly. Commit to brushing your teeth for at least 2 minutes before putting your oral appliance in your mouth. You\u2019ll lessen your risk of cavities and oral infections while promoting the lifespan of your device.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Brush your appliance in the morning.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As you get ready for your day, don\u2019t forget to brush your appliance after you\u2019ve cleaned your teeth. Daily brushing will remove plaque and bacteria that have accumulated on it while you were sleeping. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear antibacterial hand soap to clean all surfaces of the device, including the adjustment areas of the appliance. You\u2019ll remove harmful bacteria that can lead to unpleasant odors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Store the appliance in the open.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After you\u2019ve cleaned your oral appliance, the last thing you want to do is expose it to more germs. Place it in its storage case to protect it from bacteria exposure; however, leave the lid open. A closed environment will allow bacteria and yeast to grow on it. Instead, put it in its container but leave the lid open to let it air dry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Soak it in a denture cleaner weekly.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

No matter how well you brush and rinse your oral appliance, bacteria can linger in hard-to-clean places, like where it adjusts. A denture cleaner will kill anything left behind by your toothbrush. Soak your oral appliance in an OTC cleanser designed for denture wearers weekly to neutralize bacteria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The lifespan of your oral appliance relies on how well you maintain it. Besides keeping your smile and device clean at home, don\u2019t forget to visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

About Dr. Gary Radz<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr. Radz<\/a> is an award-winning dentist who specializes in sleep appliances. He strives to help patients with sleep apnea find the solutions they need to manage the disorder. As a member of numerous professional organizations, including the Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, he has the qualifications you can trust. Contact our office<\/a> today to see if oral appliance therapy is right for you.<\/p>\n\r\n