Chronic snoring causes many people (as well as their partners) to lose sleep. Snoring usually occurs when the tissues inside your throat and mouth as well as your throat become too relaxed. Vibrations are created in the tissue by air passing through which produces the tell-tale snoring noise. Snoring can be very disruptive to you as well as your sleeping partner. Heavy snoring can also indicate serious medical conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Many snorers get relief from using mouthpieces that are designed to reduce episodes of snoring. The devices, which are called mouthguards as well, come in two general categories. MADS, or mandibular advancement devices, fit inside of your mouth and then push your lower jaw forward which opens your airway up. TRDs, or tongue retaining devices, grip your tongue to prevent it from falling to the back of your throat, which often causes back sleepers to snore. Snoring has no cure, but using such aids as TRDs or MADs can significantly reduce how much you snore.
You will find our picks below for the very best anti-snoring mouthguards and mouthpieces that are currently available. Each of our picks is based on product and brand testing and research, in addition to the experiences of verified TRD and MAD users. Our guide also covers different kinds of anti-snoring mouthguards and mouthpieces, the pros and cons of using the devices, and other strategies for minimizing snoring for both you and your sleeping partner.
How to Select an Anti-Snoring Mouthguard or Mouthpiece
When selecting an anti-snoring mouthpiece (or mouthguard), the most important thing to consider is whether you prefer a TRDs tongue-restraining suction or a MAD’s manual jaw advancement. The devices might require an adjustment time frame for you to become acclimated to how they feel, particularly when you are trying to sleep.
Most over-the-counter TRDs and MADS that are sold currently cost $50 to $150 each. Before you buy a device, you should first consult with your doctor to determine which type is best suited for you. Also, medical professionals can offer you advice and tips on which models work the best.
Who Should Consider Using an Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece?
Snoring has no cure. However, the best snoring aids can reduce symptoms significantly. Many snorers can benefit from wearing an anti-soring mouthpiece. About 90 million adults are affected by snoring nationwide. Snoring is a chronic – or even nighly – problem for over one-third of those sleepers.
Usually, snoring occurs due to airflow being restricted through one’s breathing passage. There are a number of different reasons why this can happen. When the soft palate hangs somewhat low or is fairly thick, then the airway will tend to be narrower and it more likely for snoring to occur. Snoring can also be caused by nasal problems such as chronic congestion. Being obese or overweight can also cause the accumulation of extra tissue around the airway.
Alcohol is another common culprit of snoring. If you drink before you go to sleep, it can cause your throat to relax too much. hat can cause your tongue to fall back in your throat, which can block your airway. The muscles in your throat might also relax if you are sleep-deprived or are really tired. Sleeping on your back also leaves you the most susceptible to snoring since it is more likely that your airway will be blocked by your tongue.
How Does An Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece Work?
Although anti-snoring mouthpieces are very effective against snoring for many people, there are fairly basic devices that only have a few individual components. The way they work will depend on whether the mouthpiece is a TRD or a MAD.
The most common kind of anti-snoring mouthpiece is MADs. Most come with thermoplastic material in the lower and upper trays where your teeth are supposed to fit. When thermoplastic is exposed to boiling water, it will soften and allow you to bite down on boh trays to create a customized mold.
Factors To Consider About Anti-Snoring Mouthguards
The same outcome is achieved by TRDs and MADs. In most cases, less snoring. However, these usually completely different mechanisms and means. As you are trying to determine which kind of anti-snoring mouthpiece works the best for you the following factors should be considered.
Customization: More customization options are offered by MADs. Most of this type of mouthpiece is boil-and-bite models that have trays that contain thermoplastic, which allows you to make a custom mold to fit your teeth. That level of customization is not required by TRDs. Most of them are universal fit designs. However, some models are available in different sizes in order to accommodate different types of sleepers.
Quality Material:
A majority of TRDs and MADs are made out of plastic, silicone resin, or a combination of the two materials. Boil-and-bite MADs might be made completely out of moldable thermoplastic, or only layers of the materials in the lower and upper trays. A majority of anti-snoring mouthpieces that are produced these days do not contain any BPA plastic or latex. A majority of devices last six months to two years before they will need to be replaced.
Comfort: There are some sleepers who prefer a TRD’s tongue-retaining suction over a MAD’s jaw-advancing feel. Or vice-versa. You might want to consider both of them to determine which device is the most comfortable for you. In this situation, models that offer sleep trials are going to be your best option. The bottom line is to consult with your doctor to learn more about TRDs and MADS to determine which option is best for you.
Adjustability: Some MADS allow you to adjust how far your jaw is advanced by the device. For example, from our top picks, you can adjust the VitalSleep in 1 mm increments up to 6mm of advancement, while the SnoreRX adjusts up to 8mm using the same increment. The ZQuiet, by contrast, cannot be adjusted manually. The device has a hinge mechanism instead that adjusts automatically to the user’s mouth. By design, you cannot adjust TRDs.
Ease of Cleaning: We recommend that your anti-snoring mouthpiece be rinsed in hot water following every use for best results. If you are using a MAD, the lower and upper trays should be scrubbed on a regular basis to prevent bacteria from building up. Proprietary cleaning solutions are offered by some brands for their MADs. A toothbrush and toothpaste might work as well. If you are using a TRD, make sure you clean the inside of the tongue opening. Protective cases some with many anti-snoring devices. If not, the device should be stored inside a clean environment whenever you are not using it.
How Much Do Anti-Snoring Mouthguards Cost?
Typically, anti-snoring mouthpieces cost $50 to $150 each. MADs cost a bit more, with each device costing, on average $75 to $150. Free shipping might or might not be available, depending on the delivery policy of the manufacturer. However, usually full refunds are given when refunds are allowed. There are some brands that offer a discounted rate on their mouthguards when you buy two or more at the same time.
Paying $50 to $150 for a device that will most likely have to be replaced in years might sound expensive. However, an anti-snoring mouthpiece is a lot less expensive compared to upper airway surgery or other types of medical procedures performed to treat snoring problems.
Anti-Snoring Mouthguard FAQs
Are these devices safe for everyone to use?
In general, anti-snoring mouthguards are considered to be safe. However, you should definitely consult with your doctor before you use one for the very first time.
MADs can result in TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder since they physically advance your jaw forward. TMJ is characterized by pain in both the jaw as well as the surrounding muscles. TRDs and MADs can also cause irritation and pain to the gums and teeth, especially when the device is not a custom-molded one.
It is critical that anti-snoring mouthpieces be kept clean. Sterilize after each use with hot water and clean the device on a regular basis to prevent harmful bacteria from building up.
Before buying a device, thoroughly research the top models to find out if there are any known safety issues or defects associated with these products. You also can contact customer service to ask about any potential safety concerns that you might have.
How critical is certification and what things should I be looking for?
Under the FD, TRDs, MADs, and other types of intraoral devices for sleep apnea and/or snoring are considered to be Class II medical devices. That means that users are at some risk since they come into direct contact with their bodies. Therefore, the FDA regulates the selling and distribution of these devices. Mouthpieces need to be tested thoroughly and proven that they are effective before they are cleared for sale by the FDA. There should be a “cleared by FDA” label on any device you purchase.
Do I need to have a prescription?
A majority of anti-snoring mouthpieces may be sold over the counter and a prescription is not required. However, for certain TRD and MAD models, you will need to have a prescription, in addition to certain advanced custom mouthpieces. If there are any prescription requirements, they will usually be posted on the device’s online product pages.
How do custom fittings work?
A majority of MAD mouthpieces are designed to use boil-and-bite customization. The device just needs to be submerged in boiled water so that the thermoplastic is softened in the lower and upper trays, then remove from the water, cool, and then bite down on the two thermoplastic layers. (Each model will have its own specific instructions.)
For higher-priced custom mouthpieces, you might be asked to create a thermoplastic mold in your home and then mail the sample to the manufacturer. They will then make a device that custom-fits to your jaw and teeth.
Hinges, as well as other mechanisms, are used by some MADs (which include the ZQuiet) to adjust to your mouth automatically, which means customization is not necessary. Some TRDs feature a one-size-fits-all design. Those devices are usually not customizable.
Can a mouthpiece be worn with dentures?
Using a MAD mouthguard should be avoided if you wear dentures. The devices physically move your jaw forward. Therefore, they can interfere with your dentures – or even dislodge them in some cases. MADs are also not recommended for individuals with loose teeth or dental implants. On the other hand, TRDs do not mold to your teeth and are completely denture-friendly (although you should check with your doctor first to ensure this device is right for you).
Is bruxism (teeth grinding) prevented by mouthguards?
MADS can minimize or prevent nighttime teeth grinding. The devices have lower and upper trays to separate and hold the teeth. As long as the device is fitted properly, it will keep your lower and upper teeth in place and also prevent them from coming in contact with each other.
The teeth are not separated by TRDs, and there is not any evidence that they result in nighttime teeth grinding being reduced.
How should my mouthpiece be cleaned?
Each model will have its own cleaning instructions. However, hot water should be used to sterilize the mouthpiece after each use. The device should be scrubbed regularly using a cleaning solution in order to prevent bacteria from building up. The mouthpiece should also be stored inside the bathroom cabinet or another fairly cool place where it will not be exposed to excessive moisture or heat. Many TRD and MAD manufacturers provide a protective case with their devices.
Are returns and warranties offered by mouthguard manufacturers?
Anti-snoring mouthpieces frequently come with a 30 to 60-night sleep trial. That means you can use the device for a month or longer before you have to decide whether to return it for a refund or keep it. Usually, shipping charges are not refundable.
Warranties are not common, but there are some TRD and MAD modes that are back b some kind of manufacture’s guarantee. In a majority of cases, the device will be covered by the warranty for up to a year.