Best Anti Snoring Devices Reviews and Comparisons

Snoring and sleep apnea are among the most common problems adults face today. According to the American Sleep Association ® (ASA) statistics, an estimate of 22 million adults suffers from moderate to severe sleep apnea just in America alone, in 2018.

However, as common and simple as this sleeping disorder might seem, it can actually be pretty fatal if left undiagnosed. Sleep apnea can also be considered a symptom of even more fatal health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

But most importantly, obstructive sleep apnea can also lead to death. Not being able to breathe for periods of time or narrowed throat tissues during sleep can cause death. It is important to note though, that snoring does not necessarily equate to sleep apnea.

Now, are you tired of hearing your parents or partner snore excessively? Or more importantly, do you experience this yourself and have a hard time sleeping in turn? This is where the mouthpiece for snoring comes in.

Today, we will be talking about why it’s important to stop excessive snoring and how. We’ve included in this article important information about snoring, sleep apnea and several reviews on the best anti snoring devices on the market.

It is important that you find the best-rated anti-snoring mouthpiece for you in order to rectify such sleeping conditions. Here are several things you need to know about anti snoring devices.

Why is it important to stop snoring?

Snoring is very normal among men and people who are overweight. It is also a normal feat for adults, tired people, and heavy sleepers. However, this doesn’t mean that women and children are exempted from this.

This is because snoring tends to worsen as you age. In fact, excessive snoring and/or sleep apnea are also common to children who have enlarged tonsils. Excessive snoring can be pretty dangerous if left as is.

If you try to search more about snoring or sleep apnea, both terms tend to show up in the search engine results. But just as we mentioned earlier, sleep apnea doesn’t necessarily equate to snoring and vice versa.

Not all people with sleep apnea snore and not all people who snore have sleep apnea. It is very important that you know which of the two is your sleeping condition or if it’s both.

This is so you can get them diagnosed and treated before they become fatal. Snoring, in general, is just a layman’s term for respiratory structure vibration. It can be induced by a lot of factors such as sleeping position, relaxants (such as drugs, alcohol, etc.), health condition and sleep deprivation among all others.

However, keep in mind that aside from the health risks, snoring can also reduce the quality of your sleep.

Side Effects of Snoring/ Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Sleepwalking

Obstruction/Blockage of the airway causing long breathing interruptions (usually more than 10 seconds)

Poor sleep quality and lack of sleep in general

Increase in blood pressure and size of the heart leading to stroke or heart attack

Chronic headaches

Low oxygen levels in the blood

Blood vessel constriction in the lungs and pulmonary hypertension

Irritability and lack of focus

Decreased sexual drive or libido

Throat and/or nasal problems and damages

These are just some of the most common side effects and health conditions associated with snoring and sleep apnea. But the good news is that you don’t have to endure this sleeping condition for long.

With today’s technology and medical advancements, you can now treat both sleep apnea and snoring. Even without medical surgeries! Here are some methods to cure excessive snoring and sleep apnea.

Tongue Retaining Device (TRD) for Snoring

A Tongue Retaining Device or TRD is an oral/dental appliance also known as an anti snoring mouthpiece. It works similarly to mandibular advancement devices or MADs which we will also be explaining later on.

However, what makes it different is that the TRD does not really cause jaw or teeth soreness and misalignment. Because a TRD is made of a very soft plastic silicone with a bulb on one side, rest assured it won’t leave you aching.

When squeezed and released, the bulb creates the suction that pulls your tongue forward and out of the mouth. This is what keeps your airway open and air free-flowing, thus, keeping you away from snoring as well.

However, like any other device, the TRD has its own set of pros and cons. It is important that you be able to weigh your options. This will help you choose a method that is best suited to your needs and preferences.

PROS

With TRDs, you don’t need any complicated fittings or measurements. There are a lot of brands out there that offer a “one size fits all” device.

Unlike MADs, TRD does not cause jaw or teeth soreness and misalignment.

Most TRDs work, even for people with a full set of dentures.

Not only does the TRD lessen snoring, it also improves quality of sleep.

TRDs are very simple to use and clean.

The TRD won’t force your jaw forward; it will only keep your tongue pulled forward.

CONS

The TRD can cause tongue soreness and/or drool. However, do note that feeling as if your tongue is bruised also wanes out in the long run. This is a normal sensation.

You might not be able to breathe using your mouth. Unlike MADs, some TRDs only allow this through small holes on the device.

TRD might not be able to help you with bruxism (teeth clenching and/or grinding) like the MAD can.

Although a one size fits all device can be pretty convenient for first-time users, it also has its own downside. TRDs cannot be adjusted and customized further, unlike the MADs.

Similar to the MAD, the TRD can also cause drooling during your sleep.

Remember, both the MAD and TRD have their own pros and cons. This said, both devices also require patience as you need some time getting used to them. The pain or hassle that you will experience as get used to them is nothing compared to fixing excessive snoring or sleep apnea.

Factors to Consider When Buying a TRD

When buying a TRD or any anti snoring device, it is not enough that you know the pros and cons. You should also be aware of the factors to consider. That said, here are some important factors you need think you need to consider when buying a TRD:

Style and Comfort

With style also comes comfort. The TRD comes in different styles. Thus, each device can give you different levels of comfort. Some have holes in them so you could breathe through your mouth, even while wearing the TRD.

However, make sure that the hole is just the right size. Too small and it will defeat its purpose. Too big and it will open your mouth too wide causing pain and soreness. Some models look like huge mouth suctions while some simply have a small bulb.

Durability and Quality

Since you will be using the TRD regularly, it is a given that the TRD you will be buying durable and worth your money. Moreover, you should also make sure that the brand is known to be effective. Otherwise, you’ll be wasting money.

A good quality TRD will last you for around 6 to 12 months, with proper cleaning and care.Remember, no matter how high quality your TRD is, you wouldn’t be able to maximize it without maintenance and proper care.

Material and Safety

It is a given that you’ll be putting the device in your mouth for long periods of time, which is why it is important that you take note of the material used in the TRD as well if it is safe.

For starters, it is highly ideal that you get a TRD that’s both latex and BPA free. A high quality, non-mystery model TRD will not leave any traces of toxin in your mouth. It also shouldn’t fall off all while the vacuum keeps your tongue in place.

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)

Conditions like sleep apnea and snoring may cause trouble and discomfort while you sleep. You no longer need to worry though! The mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are here to solve the problem for you.

The MADs are your reliable anti snoring mouthpieces for sleep apnea. They are oral appliances that help treat sleep apnea and snoring. They look like the traditional mouthpiece, but with more power and capabilities.
To know more about MADs, check out what makes it great, and its best features.

How do MADs Work

The mandibular advancement device is placed in the mouth before you go to sleep. This device pushes the jaw forward. This way, the airway becomes larger and the flow of air into the body is improved.

Originally, MADs only work for the jaw, but there are new hybrid products that push your tongue forward. This innovation helps prevent your tongue from collapsing back. This collapse causes the vibration that leads to sleep apnea and snoring.

It is difficult to move your tongue forward and backward, and let it stay that way. Thus, MAD is your chance at the best snoring mouthpiece. Just remember to consult with a dentist every now and then for the right fit of the device.

Who Can Use MADs

Mandibular advancement devices are used specifically to treat sleep apnea and snoring. This device should not be used without an advice of a professional. Once you use a MAD, you can also prevent the following:

A sudden change in the function of the nervous system

Future disease of the heart and brain caused by breathing problems

Lung diseases and blood circulation problems

It is often another person who notices snoring, especially when you are too loud. Once you feel that you are experiencing discomfort, ask a family member about what they hear. Using MADs early on can do so many wonders for your health.

What are MADs Made Of

You are going to put the MAD in your mouth, so an extra caution is needed. Before buying a brand of MAD, you need to examine the materials first. You don’t want to use a MAD that is made of harmful substances.

Remember that the MAD will be in your mouth for long periods of hours. Thus, be mindful of the following:

Its materials and the MAD as a while should be graded safe by medical experts

The MAD should not be irritating inside the mouth hence you should not feel itchy when using it

The overall texture should be smooth, otherwise, your gums will feel painful

Beware of MADs that are made of latex, and those that contain bisphenol A (BPA). If you have a latex allergy, you need to look for a latex-free MAD. On the other hand, BPA is very harmful to your bloodstream and may also cause diseases later.

Once again, be sure to check the products closely and ask for help when buying them.

Why Choose MADs

Compared to other mouth devices, the mandibular advancement device proves to be an outstanding anti-snore mouthpiece. It took years of research to make it perfect for apnea treatment. Moreover, MADs also provide efficiency and ease for you.

Comfortable

Comfort is a primary need for a product such as the MAD. You want to have a peaceful sleep while treating your apnea and snoring problems. You don’t want to stay up all night because of discomfort and irritability.

MADs are extremely comfortable to use. They have a flexible design, and most types are made of softer materials. Once you put the MAD in your mouth, you should not feel extreme pain.

It will take you a while to adjust to the MAD that you will be using. However, it should not take too long. A week is enough periods for adjustment.

Easy to Fit and Adjust

Some MADs need guidance from the dentist to fit properly. There are also some brands that are ready to use the minute you take them out of the box. Nonetheless, you need to undergo the boil-and-bite process to fit the MAD.

If you are doing this process on your own, carefully read the instructions (often located on the box). Sometimes, you might feel afraid to do it on your own because you might mess it up. If you feel unsure, visit a dentist to do the fitting for you.

At the end of the day though, MAD is easy to fit and adjust to the mouth. You can even ask help from a family member to help you with it.

Airflow Holes

For some special cases, airflow holes are necessary. However, not all MADs have them. For instance, if you have sinusitis, you need the airflow holes to help you breathe through your mouth.

The priority is always to maintain the right amount of oxygen inside your body. This is a need that MADs understand, so you will feel utmost comfort. Remember to check the size of the hole—they shouldn’t be too large or too small that it disrupts its purpose.

What to Expect from MADs

Prepare a towel or a cloth to cover your pillow because you might drool a lot. You can’t move your jaw and tongue because of the MAD. It will be difficult to swallow your saliva, so having a towel prevents drool from spreading on to your pillow.

As mentioned earlier, it would take several days of adjustment before you get used to MAD. In the first few days, you will experience soreness of the jaw. This is only natural as your mouth is still getting used to the MAD.

It really takes a lot of sacrifices when using a MAD for the first time. Trust that once you are well-adjusted to it, everything will run smoothly.

Some MAD Things to Consider

To help you decide whether to get a MAD or not, here is a detailed list of pros and cons:

PROS

MAD is small and compact, which makes it a perfect alternative to CPAP therapy

MAD keeps the airway open, thus there are no obstacles to flow of air

MAD is inserted into the mouth, so it easily pushes the jaw forward

MAD is more efficient in maintaining dental hygiene compared to other mouth guards

MAD would fit in any size of the mouth and is easily adjustable

CONS

MAD might cause severe jaw pain if it is not properly fitted and placed inside the mouth

MAD may also cause sore teeth and gums due to harmful materials

MAD may cause the looseness of dental restorations (e.g. crown)

MAD may cause possible damage to the jaw position if not adjusted well

MAD can cause excessive salivation, which then leads to dry mouth

You need a good night’s sleep

Everyone needs to have a good night’s sleep. You should not suffer from trouble especially when you are resting. Most importantly, if you have a chance to prevent a more serious disease, then you to need to take it.

You were introduced to the best features of the top-rated mouthpieces in the market. They all promise to ease your struggles with sleep apnea and snoring. The decision now lies to you, and what you see is the best and fit your needs and budget.

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)

To know more about MADs, check out what makes it great, and its best features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you are familiar with snoring devices or trying out new things, you probably have some questions in mind. For your reference, here are some of the most frequently asked questions with their respective answers. See if we have answered some of your questions!

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Will I die from snoring?

Snoring is not just something that keeps your partner up at night. It is a sign of a serious and potentially grave condition.

It is found that people with severe snoring are 40% most likely to die early than others. This is because snoring and sleep apnea are linked to various diseases such as heart disease, stroke etc. Moreover, recent studies have shown that snoring is linked to some mental illnesses like depression.

In short, snoring can lead to an early death. If you suspect that you snore frequently at night, it is best to see a doctor immediately.

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What is the main cause of sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea has many different causes, usually varying according to age.

In children, sleep apnea is caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids, and dental conditions like a large overbite. Child obesity may also be a possible cause of sleep apnea. Other birth-related causes of sleep apnea may be a presence of a tumor in the airways, Down syndrome, and Pierre-Robin Syndrome.

In adults, sleep apnea is commonly caused by obesity. Excess weight is usually associated with the soft tissues in the mouth and throat. During sleep, this soft tissue may block the airways and cause sleep apnea.

However, not all sleep apnea cases in adults are caused by obesity.

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Can I get rid of sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea can be treated, but treatment options vary in each type. For those with mild sleep apnea, the condition can be treated with losing weight and having good sleeping habits.

On the other hand, those with moderate sleep apnea may treat their condition with a stop-snoring mouthpiece. Those with a severe case of sleep apnea may use a breathing device called Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP).

This device stops your airways from closing during your sleep. Removing the tonsils and adenoids in surgery is also a treatment option, though often done to children.

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How to clean stop snoring mouthpieces?

To make your snoring mouthpieces last long, it is important to clean it regularly. Luckily, your doctor will instruct you on how to clean your prescribed mouthpiece to prevent snoring. However, there are some things that you need to remember when cleaning your snoring mouthpiece.

First, never use toothpaste to clean your snoring mouthpiece. Your mouthpiece is an appliance, not a tooth. Toothpaste is an abrasive product that can cause scratches on your mouthpiece. If these scratches are left unchecked, microorganisms can live there and cause discoloration, odor, and hygiene problems.

Second, never use bleach to clean your snoring mouthpiece. Compared to toothpaste, bleach is too strong for your snoring mouthpiece. It can cause your mouthpiece to break down and leave an unpleasant taste of bleach.

And third, never use boiling water to rinse your snoring mouthpiece. Since snoring mouthpieces are made from plastics, very hot water can cause these mouthpieces to deform. If left unchecked, a distorted mouthpiece may cause soreness and damage to your gums.

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Can I make a DIY snoring mouthpiece?

DIY snoring mouthpiece, commonly called as “boil and mouth piece”, is a tempting option for those who want to save. But, Dr. Erika Mason, a VA dentist, argues that making your own snoring mouthpiece is a very bad idea.

Not only can DIY snoring mouthpieces cause sore jaws and maligned teeth, they may also not prevent you from snoring. So, when in doubt, always heed the assistance of a doctor in fitting your mouthpiece. A competent doctor will take into account your teeth alignment and dental works to give you the best snoring mouthpiece for you.

In the matters of snoring and sleep apnea, consult a medical professional instead of taking matters into your own hands.

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What qualifies as sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea occurs when you stop breathing for 10 seconds or more during sleep. Sleep apnea is categorized by the frequency of breathing stops in an hour. In a regular case, a person with sleep apnea may stop breathing five to 100 times in an hour.

The sleep apnea becomes severe when a person stops breathing 30 – 40 times in one hour. The symptoms of this condition include loud snoring during sleep, drowsiness during the day, irritation, headache, and frequent awakenings.

There are three main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and mixed apnea.

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Will I die from sleep apnea?

Yes, there are chances! But it is not the random pauses of breathing that kills you; it is the diseases linked to sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is found to cause disruption in the circadian rhythms, imbalances in body and brain chemistry, among others. Because of these, people with untreated sleep apnea are most likely to have a heart attack, stroke, and premature death.

A study published in 2005 showed that people with untreated sleep apnea are most likely to have a sudden cardiac arrest. The famous Star Wars personality Carrie Fisher may have died due to sleep apnea.

While her death is caused by a heart attack, it is strongly suggested to be linked to her sleep apnea.

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How to choose best snoring mouthpieces?

There at least three things to consider before purchasing a snoring mouthpiece. First, you must ask yourself if you breathe through the mouth instead of the nose. If you breathe through the mouth during your sleep, it is best to look for snoring mouthpiece with air holes.

Second, you must ask yourself if you have missing teeth or dental work. It is important to consider if your chosen mouthpiece will fit you despite these dental obstructions.

Third, you must ask yourself if you can tolerate a snoring mouthpiece. While it works for many, it might not work for you. You must see first if a mouthpiece for snoring will not bother your sleep instead of helping you to prevent snoring.

You may also explore other treatment options before you settle for best mouthpieces for snoring.

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Can stop-snoring mouthpieces stain teeth?

According to Dr. Marielaina Perrone and Dr. Dan Bruce, a cosmetics and private dentists respectively, snoring mouthpieces cannot stain teeth. The belief that mouthpieces for snoring can stain teeth is just another senseless myth about snoring mouthpieces.

However, snoring mouthpieces can develop stains. This is why it is always important to clean your snoring mouthpiece regularly. Silver fillings can stain a snoring mouthpiece, but this will not affect the function of the mouthpiece.

In addition, it is important to brush and floss your teeth before putting on the mouthpiece. So, in short, snoring mouthpieces cannot stain teeth. But, to prevent your teeth from being stained, always brush and floss your teeth regularly.

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Can anti snoring mouthpieces move teeth?

There are several claims of snoring mouthpieces causing movements in their teeth. Dr. Bruce and Dr. Perrone explain this phenomenon.

In well-made snoring mouthpieces, Dr. Perrone claims that it may cause short-term changes. For example, when a person wears their snoring mouthpiece, the tooth alignment might change. However, when the person removes their mouthpiece, the tooth alignment will go back to normal after 30 minutes or so.

Dr. Bruce has encountered cases where teeth alignment did not go back to normal after using a snoring mouthpiece. In the event of this, Dr. Bruce lists down some treatment options.

One of those treatment options is a restorative dental treatment or orthodontic treatment. In short, snoring mouthpieces can only cause permanent teeth alignment if they are not well-made.