Anti-snoring mouthpieces are oral appliances designed to alleviate snoring by addressing its physical causes within the mouth and throat. Worn during sleep, they modify the airway’s structure to prevent the vibrations that produce snoring sounds. This article explores how these mouthpieces function, their effectiveness, and practical considerations for their use.
Understanding Snoring
Snoring occurs when air flows past relaxed tissues in the throat, causing them to vibrate and produce a characteristic sound. As an individual sleeps, the muscles in the soft palate, tongue, and throat can relax, narrowing the airway. This narrowing increases the force of airflow, leading to vibrations of the soft tissues, which generates the snoring sound.
Several factors contribute to this airway narrowing. These include the anatomy of the mouth and sinuses, such as a low, thick soft palate or enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Lifestyle choices like alcohol consumption before bedtime can also relax throat muscles, increasing the likelihood of snoring. Additionally, sleeping on one’s back allows the tongue to fall backward, partially blocking the airway, and excess weight around the neck can also narrow the air passage.
How Anti-Snoring Mouthpieces Function
Anti-snoring mouthpieces primarily work by physically altering the position of oral structures to maintain an open airway during sleep. There are two main types: Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) and Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs). MADs resemble a sports mouthguard and gently move the lower jaw forward, which pulls the tongue and other soft tissues forward, preventing them from collapsing into the airway and vibrating.
TRDs, also known as tongue stabilizing devices, hold the tongue in a forward position, keeping it from falling backward into the throat. By preventing the tongue from obstructing the airway, TRDs facilitate smoother airflow and reduce snoring.
Assessing Mouthpiece Effectiveness
Anti-snoring mouthpieces can be effective in reducing snoring, particularly for individuals with mild to moderate issues. Research indicates that these devices can decrease snoring episodes for many users, with some studies showing high rates of self-reported improvement. The effectiveness can vary depending on the specific design of the mouthpiece and how well it fits.
While effective for non-apnea-related snoring, these devices also serve as an alternative treatment for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Although Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is often considered the gold standard for OSA, MADs can be a viable option for those who cannot tolerate CPAP. Studies suggest that MADs can perform similarly to CPAP in improving daytime sleepiness and overall quality of life for certain patients. However, results are individual, and a device that works for one person may not work for another.
Practical Considerations for Mouthpiece Use
Selecting an anti-snoring mouthpiece involves considering individual needs and potential contraindications. Good candidates for these devices generally experience primary snoring without severe underlying conditions like central sleep apnea. However, individuals with certain dental issues should typically avoid MADs. It is important to consult with a dental professional before using these devices to ensure they are appropriate and fitted correctly.
Contraindications for MADs
Severe jaw pain
Loose teeth
Advanced periodontal disease
Braces
Dentures
Recent dental implants
Users may experience some initial side effects as they adjust to wearing a mouthpiece. Common temporary issues include jaw soreness, tooth discomfort, dry mouth, or increased salivation. While most of these effects are minor and resolve with continued use, prolonged discomfort or significant changes to bite alignment warrant professional attention.
Mouthpieces are available as over-the-counter “boil-and-bite” models that offer a semi-custom fit, or as custom-fitted devices made by a dentist, with custom options generally providing better comfort and effectiveness. Proper cleaning and maintenance of the mouthpiece are also important to prevent bacterial buildup and maintain oral hygiene.
When to Consult a Professional
While snoring can be a common and harmless occurrence, it can also signal more serious underlying health conditions, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Loud, chronic snoring accompanied by certain symptoms warrants medical evaluation. These symptoms suggest that the airway may be repeatedly obstructed during sleep, leading to reduced oxygen levels and fragmented sleep.
Symptoms Warranting Medical Evaluation
Witnessed breathing pauses
Gasping or choking during sleep
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
Difficulty concentrating
It is important to consult a doctor or sleep specialist before trying an anti-snoring mouthpiece, especially if sleep apnea is suspected. A professional can diagnose the root cause of snoring and determine the most appropriate course of action. Anti-snoring mouthpieces are not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis and treatment for severe sleep apnea, and a medical assessment ensures that a more serious condition is not overlooked or inadequately managed.