At Spark Sleep Solutions, we deliver high-quality care for people with sleep-related breathing disorders. Located near San Ramon, our team prioritizes helping you achieve a full night’s sleep with our customized solutions. But oral sleep devices are just one part of the treatment. Our doctors, Dr. Srujal H. Shah and Dr. Scott Stevinson, will personally follow up with you, ensuring your device is comfortable and customized for your needs.
Once we fit you with a device, keeping it clean is essential. It may seem like a minor step, but preventing the buildup of bacteria is key to the success of this treatment. Here is a more in-depth look at cleaning your oral device, how bacteria can accumulate, and which types of bacteria can develop.
Sleep Apnea Oral Device
A sleep apnea oral device gently opens your airways while you sleep, preventing the tongue and soft tissues from collapsing. These devices are very effective, but because they spend hours in your mouth every night, in a warm, moist environment, they become a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
If you’re not proactive about cleaning your oral device, bacteria buildup can happen quickly. And it won’t just affect your hygiene; it can also affect the device’s lifespan.
Learn More About Our Oral Devices for Sleep Apnea
Why Cleaning Your Oral Device Is Important
If you neglect to regularly clean your oral device, you may notice:
- Bacterial growth
- Bad breath
- An unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Gum infections
- Oral health issues
- Reduced device effectiveness
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, poor oral health is linked to health conditions in other parts of the body. In other words, you can prevent a domino effect of health issues if you prevent bacterial growth early.
What Types of Bacteria Can Accumulate?
Your oral device may have a buildup of several types of microorganisms. These include:
- Streptococcus mutans – Causes tooth decay and cavities
- Porphyromonas gingivalis – Linked to gum disease
- Candida albicans – A fungus that causes oral thrush
These microorganisms grow in moist environments and will multiply quickly if you don’t clean your device regularly.
Effective Cleaning Solutions
At Spark Sleep Solutions, we’ve found these cleaning solutions are highly effective.
Dental Clean Ultra Sonic + UV Cleaning Machine
This specialized device uses a combination of high-frequency cleaning power with medical-grade sanitization to clean your oral device.
Key features include:
- Dual-action cleaning with ultrasonic waves
- A stainless steel compartment
- Fully removable lid
- A lift tray
- A 3-minute cycle
Find Out More About Our Dental Clean Ultra Sonic + UV Cleaning Machine
Dental Clean Ultra Tabs
Pair the Dental Clean Machine with Dental Clean Ultra Tabs to enhance the cleaning process. These are dissolvable tablets that help break down the bacterial buildup in your mouth while also disinfecting your oral device. Simply drop one tablet into room-temperature water and let your device soak for about 15 minutes.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in San Jose
We’re proud to serve clients seeking help for sleep apnea treatment in San Jose, San Ramon, and the surrounding areas. We believe that treatment shouldn’t stop once you receive your oral device. Effective treatment continues with follow-ups and proper maintenance.
If you’re worried that you’re not cleaning your oral device sufficiently, we’re here to help. Contact our team, and we’ll make sure your device is clean and working effectively.