If you wear an oral device to treat sleep apnea, one of the best ways to ensure that it works properly and stays in great condition for as long as possible is to keep it clean. Thankfully, this step is a lot easier than you might think. Here are some tips for ensuring that your orthotic stays free of buildup and germs that could diminish its effectiveness and harm your oral health.
How to Clean Your Sleep Device
Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are an excellent alternative to CPAP machines because they are more comfortable and much easier to wear and maintain. However, they still require some effort to clean. Thankfully, once you get the hang of it, it’s actually quite easy. Here are some simple and easy steps to ensure that your MAD stays fresh and buildup-free!
- Rinse your device with water.
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild hand soap, gently scrub the entire device, including any nooks and crannies.
- Rinse well, careful to remove all soap and bits of loosened debris.
For an added boost of freshness, once a week you can soak your device in denture cleanser for about ten minutes. Experts recommend that you do not leave them submerged for longer than this, as it can damage your device.
Another option for a deeper clean is to use an ultrasonic machine. These devices use high-frequency sonic waves to loosen microscopic debris that you might have otherwise missed with brushing and soaking alone. You can purchase one online for under $30 on sites like Amazon, however if you do choose to utilize one for your oral appliances, be sure to only use water in the machine, and never add cleansing liquids meant for use on metal and jewelry.
Finally, your device works best in conjunction with a clean mouth, so don’t forget to brush and floss well before bed each night, and give your device storage case a regular wash with dish soap and water and rinse well to keep it clean and prevent odors from forming.
Remember, your sleep device is only as effective as you let it be, so wear it regularly and don’t risk the accumulation of bacteria, debris, and odors by improperly cleaning it. It should be washed daily after each use, and additional steps like soaking or ultrasonic baths once a week can help maintain its freshness and longevity.
About Our Practice
At GoTo Sleep Center – Scottsdale, we are proud to offer patients a safe, comfortable alternative to CPAP therapy. Your sleep device is custom fit to your individual mouth, so you never need to struggle with awkward machinery, masks, or hard-to-clean tubing. If you’re interested in learning about the benefits of controlling your sleep apnea with the help of one of these dynamic orthotics, please schedule a consultation with us today for more information. You can reach out to us via our website, or call us at your earliest convenience at 623-254-7433.
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