Swollen gums?

General Discussion on any topic relating to CPAP and/or Sleep Apnea.
TomLI
Posts: 5
Joined: Fri Apr 04, 2008 9:48 am

Swollen gums?

Post by TomLI » Thu Apr 16, 2009 12:38 pm

I've been using a CPAP machine for about a year now, and my gums on the top of my mouth are very swollen and bleed when I brush. I'm convinced this is a direct result of the pressure the mask puts on my upper lip at night. I have a full face mask that helps this, but it doesn't fit well and leaks often enough to make it innefective and disturb my partner's sleep.

What options do I have to alleviate this issue? It's about time for a new mask anyway, but I can't see getting another normal mask since it will apply pressure to the same place, and I've already spent money on a full face mask that isn't quite right.

I fear if I don't find a solution, I will do permanent damage to my teeth/gums.

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tattooyu
Posts: 1618
Joined: Mon Feb 09, 2009 11:57 am
Location: Valley Village, CA

Re: Swollen gums?

Post by tattooyu » Thu Apr 16, 2009 12:43 pm

I highly recommend the Swift LT with a PapCAP chin strap (if you need one to keep from mouth leaking). It is so comfortable, and I hardly notice it's even on any more. Also, the PapCAP (very comfortable) has literally saved me from the leakage problem and I have had zero, or near zero, leaks every night since.
Sleep well and live better!

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Ganesha
Posts: 134
Joined: Sat Apr 11, 2009 10:27 am
Location: Central NJ

Re: Swollen gums?

Post by Ganesha » Thu Apr 16, 2009 12:53 pm

I have discussed this issue with my dentist.
Gum imflamation is caused by mouth breathing.
Fix that and the gums should heal.
Ganesha
Hindu god of intellect and wisdom. Remover of Obstacles.
I am not a Hindu or a god, just Mark from New Jersey. But the CPAP mask makes me look like Ganesha.
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