Snoring occurs when soft tissues in the throat vibrate due to restricted airflow during sleep. While often perceived as a nuisance, it disrupts sleep quality for both the snorer and their partner. The snore guard, scientifically known as a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD), is a non-invasive oral appliance for primary snoring. Worn over the teeth at night, the device physically alters the position of the lower jaw to ensure a clear breathing pathway.
The Mechanism of Action
The device works by gently holding the lower jaw (mandible) in a slightly forward position. This mechanical adjustment prevents the soft tissues at the back of the throat from collapsing inward during sleep. When the jaw is repositioned forward, the attached base of the tongue is also pulled forward, tightening the muscles of the soft palate and surrounding pharyngeal tissues. The resulting expansion of the upper airway volume minimizes airflow resistance and prevents the tissue vibration that causes the characteristic snoring sound. Most adjustable MADs allow the lower jaw to be advanced in small increments (5 to 10 millimeters) to find the most effective and comfortable setting.
Understanding Device Types
Snore guards are available in two primary categories: over-the-counter (OTC) options and professional custom-fitted appliances, each differing in fit, cost, and effectiveness.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Devices
OTC devices are typically “boil-and-bite” models, which users customize at home. This process involves softening the thermoplastic material in hot water and then biting into it to create a rudimentary impression of the teeth. While these devices are the most affordable and accessible option, their fit is often less precise, making them potentially bulky or uncomfortable for long-term use.
Custom-Fitted Appliances
Custom-fitted devices require a visit to a dentist who takes detailed impressions or digital scans of the patient’s teeth and jaw. These impressions are sent to a lab to fabricate a device tailored to the individual’s oral anatomy. Custom appliances are significantly more comfortable, provide a more secure fit, and often feature mechanisms allowing for precise, millimeter-level adjustments of the jaw’s advancement. The superior fit ensures better results and minimizes potential side effects like jaw soreness or tooth movement. Custom-made snore guards are a more substantial investment than OTC versions.
Determining Suitability
Snore guards are primarily intended for individuals experiencing simple, or primary, snoring that does not involve significant breathing pauses. If snoring is loud or persistent, a medical evaluation is advised to rule out a more serious condition, such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Snore guards are not sufficient as a sole treatment for moderate or severe OSA, which involves repeated episodes of airway blockage requiring comprehensive medical care and often a sleep study for diagnosis. While custom oral appliances can treat mild to moderate OSA, a standard snore guard should not be used to self-treat suspected sleep apnea. Certain pre-existing oral conditions can also make a snore guard unsuitable, including severe temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, active periodontal disease, or having a limited number of natural teeth.
Daily Use and Maintenance
A consistent daily cleaning routine ensures the appliance’s longevity and hygiene. Each morning, rinse the snore guard thoroughly under cool or lukewarm running water to remove saliva and debris. Gently brush the device using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner, such as mild soap or a specialized denture cleaner. Avoid abrasive materials like standard toothpaste, as they can scratch the material and allow bacteria to accumulate. After cleaning, the device must be completely dried before being stored in its protective case. Proper storage protects the guard from damage and prevents microbial growth, ensuring the appliance remains effective.