Jordan, what you describe certainly brings back memories. Start to finish, mine lasted exactly 21 days, although toward the end it was not constant. Here is what I did to help myself through it. First, Puffs brand tissues are the softest and strongest for wiping out the gunk. Second, roll up clean gauze and put it in the "gutters" of his mouth. This will soak up a lot and allow him several hours of sleep, in a slightly raised position. This is a messy thing to go through, but as soon as it ends, you will see major improvement.