Overview: This guide explains how to deliver Herbst or Dorsal sleep apnea appliances using Accu-fit beads for a precise fit.
Standard Delivery Process
Prepare the Sleep Apnea Device
Place the sleep apnea device in 160-degree water for approximately 3-5 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 the liner with cold water until the liner turns white.
New Crown or Bridge Delivery
Maintain Dentition Dimensions
Always ensure the opposing device is in the mouth when reforming the liner to new dentition. This maintains the current dimensions and helps reshape the Accu-fit liner.
Heat the Accu-fit Liner
Place the sleep apnea device in 160-degree water until the liner turns clear. This typically takes 30-60 seconds. Caution: If the water is too hot, the sleep apnea device will warp. If white spots appear, reheat the device until the liner is clear again.
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 the Liner
Cool the Accu-fit liner 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. Do not pull the material.
Smooth and Finish
Finish cooling the liner with cold water or freeze spray until the liner is fully white. Use a polishing brush to remove the remaining edges and smooth the liner.