Deliver Sleep Apnea Appliances

The information provided in this article is intended for use by licensed dental and healthcare professionals only, for informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical or dental advice or replace clinical judgment. The treating clinician bears sole responsibility for all diagnostic and therapeutic decisions made in connection with patient care.

Overview: This guide explains how to deliver Nylon sleep apnea appliances and achieve a precise fit.

Standard Delivery Process

Prepare the Sleep Apnea Device

Place the sleep apnea device in water at 85°C - 90°C (185°F - 194°F) for approximately 30 seconds. Tip: Patients should never heat the sleep apnea device on their own.

Fit the Device in the Mouth

Immediately place the heated sleep apnea device into the patient's mouth. Allow the sleep apnea device to cool in the patient's mouth for 20-30 seconds.

Finalize the Cooling Process

Remove the sleep apnea device from the mouth. Finish cooling with cold water until the device feels cool to the touch.

New Crown or Bridge Delivery

Maintain Dentition Dimensions

Always ensure the opposing device is in the mouth when reforming it to the new dentition. This maintains the current dimensions and helps reshape the appliance.

Heat the device

Place the sleep apnea device in water at 85°C - 90°C (185°F - 194°F) for about 1 minute.  Caution: If the water is too hot, the sleep apnea device will warp. If the water cools or does not deform where preferred, reheat the device.

Adapt the Device to New Dentition

Quickly remove the sleep apnea device and allow the device to cool for approximately 10 seconds. Fit the heated device to the new dentition while the opposing device remains in place.

Cool and Trim

Cool the device with short bursts of air using an air/water syringe for 30-60 seconds. Caution: Do not leave the sleep apnea device unattended. The sleep apnea device will permanently lock onto teeth if it fully cools in the mouth. Once removed, use curved scissors to trim away the flashed excess material (if present). Do not pull the material.

Smooth and Finish

Finish cooling the device with cold water or freeze spray until entirely cool. Use a polishing brush to remove the remaining edges are smooth.

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