Oral Appliance Therapy Care Instructions
Thank you for choosing our office for the treatment of your sleep apnea. Your oral appliance is a precision-made dental device — with proper care it will last for years and continue working effectively. Please follow these instructions carefully.
What to Expect
Because this is a foreign object in your mouth there will be an adjustment period. You may experience an increase in saliva during the first few nights of wear — this is completely normal and temporary.
Your Morning Routine
Follow these steps every morning when you remove your appliance:
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Reset your bite first — when you remove your appliance your bite relationship may feel different. This is why you are strongly encouraged to wear your upper AM aligner for 10-15 minutes every morning to reset your bite back to its normal position.
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Brush your appliance — using your toothbrush and toothpaste, brush the appliance gently, rinse thoroughly, and place it back in its container with water for the day.
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Weekly deep clean — one to two days per week, let your appliance soak in water with an effervescent tablet such as Efferdent or Retainer Brite for 15-20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
Storage
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Always store your appliance in its protective case when not in use
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Keep the case in a cool dry place away from heat and direct sunlight
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Never wrap it in a tissue or napkin — it will get thrown away
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Keep it away from pets — dogs are notorious for chewing dental appliances
What to Avoid
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Hot water, dishwashers, or microwaves — all can warp the device permanently
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Harsh chemicals, bleach, or alcohol-based mouthwash
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Regular toothpaste used aggressively — it can be too abrasive over time
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Eating or chewing gum while wearing the appliance
Follow-Up Appointments
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Please bring your appliance and its container to every follow-up appointment. Dr. Ousley will check the fit, evaluate your jaw health, and confirm your therapy is still effective. We recommend follow-up appointments every 6 months — or sooner if you notice any of the following:
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The appliance feels loose, tight, or has changed fit
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Any cracks, chips, or broken parts
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Increased jaw pain or tooth soreness beyond the initial adjustment period
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Snoring returning or sleep symptoms worsening (Use the Snore Lab app if you do not have someone to monitor your snoring)
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It has been more than 6 months since your last check
When to Call Us
Call our office at 405-755-4450 if you experience:
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Significant jaw pain or soreness lasting more than two weeks
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Any damage to the appliance
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A change in how the appliance fits
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Return of sleep apnea symptoms or snoring
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Any concerns about your treatment progress
Questions about your appliance? We're happy to help. Call us at 405-755-4450 [