Using AM Aligner to Reset Jaw

[steveinmaine]

I’ve been using a Herbst oral appliance for a while now, and it’s going well. The part I’m not sure about is how to reset my jaw.

Each morning I simply lean my chin on my palm for about five to ten minutes, and I can feel my jaw slowly shift back.

Reading up on oral appliances, though, I found out about the AM Aligner. Is that a better way? I don’t understand how one’s jaw can be instantly pushed back all the way to fit into the Aligner.

Also, are you supposed to bite into it?

Here's what I could find on various dental websites, which only made me more confused:

Bite on the am aligner for 20 seconds then release for 20 seconds. Perform this 8-10 repetitions, or until your bite “feels normal”.

Gently clench molars together and hold for 2 to 3 seconds. Repeat 4 times per minute for 10 minutes or until
bite returns to normal.

1. Place the AM Morning Aligner over the lower teeth.
2. Gently bite together into the indexed bite position.
3. Keep the teeth in this position for 15-30 minutes.

[avi123]

when are you using the Auto CPAP?

Machine: PR System One REMstar Auto CPAP Machine with A-Flex

[palerider]

I’ve been using a Herbst oral appliance for a while now, and it’s going well. The part I’m not sure about is how to reset my jaw.

you might get better help over on apneaboard, since we're more concerned with cpaps here.

of course, it's possible someone will have a good idea.

[grayghost4]

when I got my MAD ... it came with a silicone bite pad to bite on gently till the lower jaw returns to normal .... the Dentist also made another realignment pad that goes on the front teeth and byte down and it pushes the lower jaw back into position.

I don't use it much because it is to painful

[49er]

It would be best to contact your dentist about this.

49er

I’ve been using a Herbst oral appliance for a while now, and it’s going well. The part I’m not sure about is how to reset my jaw.

Each morning I simply lean my chin on my palm for about five to ten minutes, and I can feel my jaw slowly shift back.

Reading up on oral appliances, though, I found out about the AM Aligner. Is that a better way? I don’t understand how one’s jaw can be instantly pushed back all the way to fit into the Aligner.

Also, are you supposed to bite into it?

Here's what I could find on various dental websites, which only made me more confused:

Bite on the am aligner for 20 seconds then release for 20 seconds. Perform this 8-10 repetitions, or until your bite “feels normal”.

Gently clench molars together and hold for 2 to 3 seconds. Repeat 4 times per minute for 10 minutes or until
bite returns to normal.

1. Place the AM Morning Aligner over the lower teeth.
2. Gently bite together into the indexed bite position.
3. Keep the teeth in this position for 15-30 minutes.

[steveinmaine]

Thanks for the replies.

Avi123 – I’m not using CPAP yet. I have my father’s machine listed ‘cause when I’ve been here before, I’ve asked questions for him. I'll fix that.

palerider – Thanks for the tip about apneaboard.

grayghost4 – Thanks, that’s what I’ve seen for what I think is called the TAP aligner, where it’s supposed to wedge your jaw back.

49er – I plan to do that tomorrow. I just wanted to know if anyone had success with the AM Aligner before I make an appointment to get one, since it might be an unnecessary expense.

[49er]

Thanks for the replies.

Avi123 – I’m not using CPAP yet. I have my father’s machine listed ‘cause when I’ve been here before, I’ve asked questions for him. I'll fix that.

palerider – Thanks for the tip about apneaboard.

grayghost4 – Thanks, that’s what I’ve seen for what I think is called the TAP aligner, where it’s supposed to wedge your jaw back.

49er – I plan to do that tomorrow. I just wanted to know if anyone had success with the AM Aligner before I make an appointment to get one, since it might be an unnecessary expense.

steveinmaine, as an fyi, the sleep apnea dentist who posted on the now defunct apneasupport.org board was very much in favor of using an AM Aligner. Of course, your mileage will vary but I wanted to mention that.

Good luck.

49er