Torbram Dental weighs in on the importance of caring for oral appliances properly. (Source: Dear Doctor, 10 Tips for Cleaning Your Oral Appliance, by Daniel M. Carlson, CDT, https://www.deardoctor.com/articles/10-tips-for-cleaning-your-oral-appliance/ ).
Retainers, night guards, and dentures are all examples of oral appliances. Thousands of individuals rely on them to restore or sustain their dental health. The recent tech advancements are evident in today’s user-friendly appliances. That isn’t to say you can just put them somewhere and forget about them. Caring for them will ensure their longevity. Cleanliness is the most crucial component of appliance maintenance.
Let’s look at Daniel M. Carlson’s article on “10 Tips For Cleaning Your Oral Appliance” and what Torbram Dental has to say about it.
Daniel begins the article with the advice that if you properly care for your appliance, it will live longer and serve you better.
Torbram Dental agrees with it and says, “If you don’t clean your appliance on a routine basis, bacteria and plaque will build in. Without regular maintenance, it will begin to smell or taste strange.”
Daniel gives us ten tips to help you effectively clean your oral appliances. Let’s look at what Torbram Dental has to comment on them.
Do not clean your appliance with toothpaste.
” As the article mentions, teeth and dental appliances are composed of different elements and require distinct cleaning methods. Toothpaste is abrasive and may contain rough particles, which will inevitably scratch the appliance’s surface. Cleansing with abrasive toothpaste is not recommended, especially if you cannot gauge the pressure you are using to clean the appliance. Always ask if there is a special oral appliance cleaner that is more suitable.,” says Torbram Dental.
Use warm water and a liquid dish detergent or hand soap.
“Most common domestic soaps are significantly gentler and more effective, especially when used with an effective antibacterial. Only a small amount on a delicate brush is enough,” advises Torbram Dental.
Use a brush made specifically for the appliance.
“The brush you use for your dental appliance will be much softer and won’t be as effective for your oral hygiene routine. The article makes a great point. You will also be using different oral care solutions or soap. You wouldn’t want any residue to make its way into your mouth. Which is why it is also recommended to rinse your appliance after cleansing thoroughly.,” suggests Torbram Dental.
Never use boiling water or even very hot water to clean your appliance.
Torbram Dental agrees, “Boiling does destroy germs. Heat bends plastic, which will damage your appliance. To get a perfect fit, your dentist takes a mold of your mouth before creating your device. You eliminate your appliance’s functionality if it doesn’t fit properly. Therefore, will eventually cost you more time and money to remake an appliance.”
Avoid using bleach.
Torbram Dental says, “Some believe bleaching would eradicate germs. However, the material the appliance is made from will be broken down due to the harsh properties of bleaching agents. Any residue left on the appliance will not be safe once placed back into your mouth.”
While washing your appliance, place a towel in the sink basin.
“Denture can crack if they were to fall, which is a costly mistake that can be avoided. As the article mentions, a cloth or material placemat in the sink can soften the fall and prevent small pieces from going down the drain,” says Torbram Dental.
Try purchasing an ultrasonic cleaner.
“An ultrasonic cleaner is the finest dental cleaning technique for oral appliances, according to scientific studies. It refreshes by vibrating at a high frequency, getting into the small crevices that a toothbrush can’t reach. An ultrasonic cleaner takes the pressure off all the cleansing details, making it much easier to maintain freshness.,” recommends Torbram Dental.
To freshen your breath, utilize the proper oral hygiene supplies.
Torbram Dental reminds us, “It is essential to maintain oral hygiene. As the article mentions, regardless of the routine cleaning of an oral appliance, you will still have to ensure proper oral hygiene. Always schedule a dental checkup to examine the condition of any remaining teeth, the fit of the oral appliance, and any other oral issues.”
Do not keep your appliance on a nightstand or elsewhere.
Torbram Dental agrees, “Dental appliances, particularly those that are a little fragrant due to poor cleaning, are quite appealing to pets. One wouldn’t want it in the hands of your small child, too. Dental appliances can be easily misplaced, dropped, or accidentally thrown out. Therefore, you should keep it in a case or soaking water.”
Wearing dentures 24 hours a day is like wearing socks all the time.
” As the article suggests, allow for the natural antibacterial components and cleansing effect of saliva to do their work overnight by not wearing dentures. If you notice any indication of infection, consult your dentist immediately,” advises Torbram Dental.
“The purpose of your oral appliance is crucial. It’s also an investment in your health, beauty, and overall well-being. One should treat their dental appliance with care and use it according to your dentist’s instructions,” concludes Torbram Dental.