Instructions for Daily Use of your SomnoDent MAS
Seating your SomnoDent MAS – We recommend using lip balm for the first few nights.
Place the upper plate (identified by screw component) in your mouth as instructed by Dr. Alfe. Press up on your plate with both thumbs to ensure that the plate is seated securely and fitting comfortably.
Place the lower plate (identified by the fins) in your mouth, press down on both sides of the plate using forefingers to ensure it is seated securely.
Once the upper and lower plates are securely seated, bring your lower jaw slightly forward to allow the fins to engage. Slowly bring your lower jaw into a closed position and allow your lips to meet together.
You may experience a mild plastic taste during the first use of your device. This will disappear with storage and use. You may immerse your SomnoDent in clean water for up to 72 hours before first use. Change the water daily.
Removing your SomnoDent MAS
Always remove the lower plate first. Using thumbs on both sides gently pull the lower plate in an upward motion to remove. Using your forefingers on both sides, gently pull the upper plate down and forward to remove.
Cleaning your SomnoDent MAS
Each morning, rinse in cold or lukewarm (NOT HOT) water then clean with a soft toothbrush and a mild detergent, such as liquid soap. Rinse well. Pay particular attention to cleaning the metal components and the fitting surface to ensure that it is free from all scaling deposits. Avoid skin contact with the metal components where possible.
Store in a glass of clean water. By storing in water, the acrylic will not dry out and will prevent cracks, corrosion and possible discoloration of the metal components caused by build up of salts and saliva.
Once or twice a week, soak in a partial denture cleaner, such as Polident Partials. Soak for 5 minutes only, then rinse and store in water. Always follow the instructions on the pack.
Using your Bite Tab
When you first remove your SomnoDent MAS from your mouth, your bite may feel different to how it normally feels. The blue bite tab is intended to restore your regular bite function. After removing your appliance simply place the bite tab horizontally (flat) between your upper and lower front teeth, bite down and slowly clench molars together and hold for 2 – 3 seconds. Repeat this 20 times on each side or until your bite feels back to normal.
Ongoing Maintenance
The SomnoDent Mas device has screws in the upper plate on both sides. These screws are used to gradually move the lower jaw to a more forward position if necessary. Regularly inspect the device for signs of damage or wear and tear. We recommend you do this after each daily cleaning. If the device is damaged, do not use it and call us immediately. Do not move or adjust the screws unless specifically directed to do so by Dr. Alfe!
Possible Side Effects
Due to the function of the SomnoDent MAS, 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 Dr. Alfe immediately.
It is imperative that you maintain your hygiene schedule as directed by Dr. Alfe, whether you come in every 3, 4 or 6 months for your cleanings and exam. Bring your SomnoDent with you to each hygiene visit so Dr. Alfe can check the fit and integrity of it.
Contact Dr. Alfe immediately if you notice any of the following: tooth movement or persistent change in your bite, gum or persistent dental soreness, pain or soreness to the TMJ (jaw) joint, obstruction of oral breathing or excessive salivation. As Dr. Alfe discussed with you, as the muscles get used to the SomnoDent, they may relax and change and there may be minor bite changes which Dr. Alfe can treat as needed.
The SomnoDent is custom made for you and you alone. Do not modify or share the device with anyone! (Never mind that it’s dangerous to do so, it’s also yucky!)
If you notice anything besides what we covered, please call us immediately!
