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CPAP Strap Pushes Gum Into Teeth
#1
CPAP Strap Pushes Gum Into Teeth
I use a ResMed F20 Touch mask that works for the sleep apnea. However, the lower straps cause my cheeks to push into my teeth and irritate the inside of the cheek and gum. I have tried upper and lower mouth guards, but they do not cover the back molar sufficiently to prevent the cheek/gum irritation. My dentist is somewhat at a loss as to what to do as am I. I am not sure if the damage is only due to my lower teeth; my upper back teeth may be dropping down over the inside of the cheek as well.

I have to use a steroid mouthwash which is not the best thing I could be doing. 

Nasal masks have not really worked since I tend to have air escape between my lips sometimes as well as have sinus congestion during the season. 

Has anyone seen or heard of this problem and/or know of a solution?

It would be nice if I could put something between the cheek and the teeth to provide a protective cushion.

Thanks.
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#2
RE: CPAP Strap Pushes Gum Into Teeth
I wish I could think of something, but I can't seem to bring anything up.  Sorry.  Apart from going through the hassle of finding another headgear that works, maybe adapting one that's 'close' to your cushion...dunno.  Or, try a nasal mask again, but try a chin strap, or a cervical collar, a high one that keeps your lower jaw up to the top jaw.
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#3
RE: CPAP Strap Pushes Gum Into Teeth
Putting something between the teeth and the gum might noit be the best idea, it could be a choking hazard.




However, you could try putting something between your mask straps and your cheeks to spread the load, thin foam or even just cardboard.
If it is the front teeth it would be difficult to say the least.  But you said molar so I think molars.  You do not need to tighten the mask so tight as cause problems. There are other masks and there is even one like a fireman's mask, but even it will have some contact with your cheeks.
I think I picked the right video, try following it and as you will see he does not tighten it so much as it digs into his face.
If all else fails and no one comes up with something better I would try something to spread the load across your face, it might not need to be thick, just take the strain off a bit.  But do not overtighten your mask, if it leaks a lot it is the wrong size.



I am NOT a doctor.  I try to help, but do not take what I say as medical advice.


Every journey, however large or small starts with the first step.

Sleep-well
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#4
RE: CPAP Strap Pushes Gum Into Teeth
You need to update your Mask in your profile mike, though it might change when you fix the issue.
I am NOT a doctor.  I try to help, but do not take what I say as medical advice.


Every journey, however large or small starts with the first step.

Sleep-well
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#5
RE: CPAP Strap Pushes Gum Into Teeth
Great idea about trying to spread the load. I do have railroad track imprints left by the lower straps. I think I will see how loose I can go and still use the mask.

I use a large -- the medium rides up too close to the mouth.

I will give some thought to the nasal mask again. The collar sounds like it would affect the sleep. I'll go out and look at chin straps too. Only problem is that it is possible to motorboat through the lips even with a chin strap.

Thank you for the suggestions.

Mike
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#6
RE: CPAP Strap Pushes Gum Into Teeth
(05-04-2020, 07:37 PM)Sleep2Snore Wrote: You need to update your Mask in your profile mike, though it might change when you fix the issue.

Done -- thank you.
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#7
RE: CPAP Strap Pushes Gum Into Teeth
I do experience masks pushing on bad places of my mouth, and affecting my teeth. This is one reason I switch masks periodically (every few months). I tend to rotate between several different masks that work for me, and that gives my teeth & mouth a break.
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#8
RE: CPAP Strap Pushes Gum Into Teeth
(05-07-2020, 02:23 AM)Hydrangea Wrote: I do experience masks pushing on bad places of my mouth, and affecting my teeth.  This is one reason I switch masks periodically (every few months). I tend to rotate between several different masks that work for me, and that gives my teeth & mouth a break.

I have a N20 coming in on Saturday that I am going to try. I’ve used it in the past so it shouldn’t be an issue. I am getting a chin strap this time around. It will definitely make a difference on the strap tracks. Thx for the response.
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#9
RE: CPAP Strap Pushes Gum Into Teeth
Mike, a number of members have given the Knightsbridge Dual Chin Strap high marks for comfort because it pulls upwad, not back. Its design should help you with the strap comfort issues.
Sleeprider
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#10
RE: CPAP Strap Pushes Gum Into Teeth
Thank you. When I first looked at the Knightsbridge Dual Chin Strap I was worried about the impact of pressure over the ears. I’ll go take another look at it.

Mike
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