Aftercare for Oral Appliances, Bite Guards, & Night Guards
Follow this aftercare guide for your oral appliances, bite guards, and night guards after receiving your appliance from Dr. Nojan, your trusted TMJ & Orofacial Pain specialist in NYC.
Proper care and maintenance of your oral appliances are essential to ensure their longevity and their effectiveness for treating/alleviating symptoms related to TMJ issues. Following these simple steps will keep your oral appliances and guards clean, and your mouth and gut healthy.
1. Cleaning Routine:
Maintaining a daily cleaning routine is crucial for the longevity and effectiveness of your oral appliances. Follow these steps:
– Soft Toothbrush and Soap: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild soap to clean your oral appliances, bite guards, and night guards. Gently brush all surfaces, including the inside and outside of the device. This helps remove debris, plaque, and bacteria that can accumulate during normal use.
– Avoid Toothpaste and cleaning tablets: Refrain from using toothpaste to clean your oral appliances, bite guards, and night guards, as certain toothpaste ingredients can be abrasive and damage the appliance’s surface causing more debris and bacteria to accumulate.
– Ultrasonic Cleaning: For advanced cleaning, Dr. Nojan recommends ultrasonic cleaning. These readily available machines gently remove debris from hard-to-reach areas of your oral appliances that toothbrushes may not reach.
– Avoid Hot Water on soft appliances: Using hot water to clean any oral appliances can make the material too malleable and cause warping which will ruin their custom fit to your teeth.
– Thorough Rinsing: After cleaning, rinse your oral appliances under running cool water to ensure that all soap residue is removed.
2. Storage of Your TMJ Guard:
-Proper Storage: Fully dry your appliance and store it in a clean dry case. Do not wrap in a damp towel or leave it in mouthwash or any other solution. This prevents mold and bacteria buildup.
-Keep away from pets, especially dogs. Dogs love chewing mouthguards!
3. Regular Check-ups With Your TMJ Specialist:
– Professional Assessment: Schedule regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Nojan to have your oral appliances examined. This allows for early detection of any cracking or other issues. It is cheaper to repair an appliance than to order a brand new one. and ensures that your oral appliances fit properly and function effectively over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Aftercare for Oral Appliances, Bite Guards, and Night Guards
Q: Can I use toothpaste to clean my oral appliances, bite guards, and night guards?
A: No, avoid using toothpaste, as some ingredients can be abrasive and damage the appliance’s material. Instead, use a soft toothbrush and mild soap to clean your devices effectively.
Q: Do I need cleaning tablets for my oral appliances?
A: Dr. Nojan’s oral appliances are designed to be low-maintenance. You won’t need cleaning tablets. Just follow the soft toothbrush and soap cleaning method for optimal results.
Q: What is ultrasonic cleaning, and should I consider it?
A: There are at-home and professional ultrasonic cleaning devices. Ultrasonic cleaning is an advanced cleaning method to gently remove debris from hard-to-reach areas of your oral appliances. It’s an efficient and effective option for a thorough clean.
Q: How often should I clean my oral appliances, bite guards, and night guards?
A: We recommend cleaning your devices before and after each use to prevent the buildup of bacteria and debris. This routine maintenance helps maintain their hygiene and effectiveness.
Q: Can I use regular soap to clean my oral appliances?
A: Yes, you can use mild soap to clean your oral appliances, bite guards, and night guards. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
Q: How should I store my oral appliances when not in use?
A: Proper storage is important. Fully dry your appliance and store it in a clean dry case. Do not wrap in a damp towel or leave it in mouthwash or any other solution. This prevents mold and bacteria buildup.
Q: Why are regular check-ups important for oral appliances?
A: Regular check-ups with Dr. Nojan allow for professional assessment and early detection of any issues. This ensures that your oral appliances fit properly and continue to function effectively.
Q: How do I know if my oral appliances need replacement?
A: If you notice any signs of wear, damage, or discomfort, it’s best to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nojan. He can assess your devices and determine whether a repair or replacement is necessary.
Dr. Nojan’s practice is committed to your oral health and well-being. By following these aftercare guidelines and consulting this FAQ section, you can confidently care for your oral appliances, bite guards, and night guards.
