Maintaining and Adjusting a Herbst Appliance

The Adjustable Herbst has become one of the most popular choices for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. The two-piece construction is designed for ultimate patient comfort. This guide will help you identify the different parts of your new Adjustable Herbst Device.

The Parts of a Herbst Appliance

How to make adjustments

Hold the upper device with the calibration screw facing toward you.

Forward Adjustment

Fit your calibration tool into the adjustment keyhole and rotate 90o in the direction of the plus sign (+) or the red dot on the device.

Backward Adjustment

Rotate your calibration tool in the opposite direction of the plus sign (+) or the reddot on the device.

Inserting the Upper Device

Place the upper device in your mouth, as indicated in Fig. 1. Press up on the device with both thumbs to ensure that it fits securely and comfortably.

Inserting the Lower Device

Place the lower device in your mouth. Press down on both sides of the device using your index fingers to ensure it fits comfortably.

  • Rubber bands (elastics)
    • Medium force - 3/16th in 
    • Elastic use is optional
      • Main purpose is to train the muscles and promote nasal breathing
    • Helpful for mouth breathers as it will keep them closed and ensure the device does not dislodge while patient is sleeping/bruxing
  • How often does patient wear the elastics
    • Nightly wear
      • Changed when loose

Removing the Appliance

Always remove the lower device first. Using your thumbs on both sides, gently pull the lower device in an upwards motion to remove. Using both your index fingersand thumbs, gently pull the upper device down and forwards to remove.

  • Tip: Use lip balm during the first few nights of wearing your Herbst to help keep lips moist.

Cleaning the Herbst

Always clean your device in the morning immediately after having removed it from your mouth.
Use a soft tooth brush.

  1. Never use hot water, hot water damages your device and will invalidate the warranty.
  2. Never soak your device in cleaner as it can cause delamination.
  3. After having removed the device from the storage case, thoroughly brush it with a tooth brush
    and rinse it under cool running water.
  4. Dry all parts of the device and storage case carefully and thoroughly using a clean towel.
  5. When not in use, the device should be stored in your storage case.
  • Please note: To reduce the possibility of discoloration, do not drink coffee, tea or cola with the device in place. Always brush your teeth thoroughly before use.

Possible Side Effects

You may experience some temporary side effects, such as sore jaw joints, increased salivation, dry mouth, sore teeth, irritation of the soft tissues in the mouth, and/or a slight change in your bite. These possible side effects should diminish within an hour of removing the device. If any of these side effects continue, contact your dentist immediately.

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