Maeve
Snoring is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world. It makes it hard for both the snorer and their partner to sleep. It’s not always just a bothersome problem; it could be a sign of a serious health problem, like sleep apnea. As a result, a lot of people look for ways to sleep better and stop snoring. One of these that has become more famous in recent years is the snoring mouthpiece. Really, though, do these things work? Let us talk about everything you need to know about mouthpieces and how well they work to stop snoring.
What Is a Mouth Appliance for Snoring?
A mouth appliance, also known as a mandibular advancement device (MAD), is a custom or over-the-counter device designed to treat snoring by repositioning the lower jaw. This simple yet effective device is worn during sleep and helps to prevent the airway from collapsing, which is one of the main causes of snoring. These devices are often made from comfortable materials and are worn in the mouth to gently push the jaw forward, ensuring the airway remains open throughout the night.
In addition to MAD devices, some mouth appliances work by stabilizing the tongue. These are known as tongue-retaining devices (TRDs), and they prevent the tongue from blocking the airway during sleep.
How Do Mouthpieces Help to Stop Snoring?
Snoring happens when the tissues in the back of the throat move back and forth as air moves through a narrowed airway. This narrowing of the airway can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle relaxation, nasal congestion, obesity, or anatomical issues in the throat and jaw.
A mouth appliance for snoring addresses this problem by either advancing the lower jaw slightly forward or holding the tongue in a forward position. By doing so, it keeps the airway clear and prevents the tissues from collapsing, significantly reducing or eliminating snoring.
Unlike other treatments, such as CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines, which require constant maintenance and can be cumbersome, mouth appliances are simple, portable, and easy to use. They require no electricity or complicated setup, making them a convenient solution for people struggling with snoring.
Who Can Benefit from a Mouth Appliance for Snoring?
While mouth appliances are highly effective for many, they’re not suitable for everyone. The success of these devices depends largely on the type and severity of snoring. For people whose snoring is primarily caused by mild to moderate obstruction in the airway, a mouth appliance for snoring can be an excellent option.
If your snoring is caused by problems with your nose or more serious sleep apnea, a mouthpiece might not be the best way to stop it. People with obstructive sleep apnea may need a CPAP machine or even surgery if their mouth gets completely blocked while they sleep.
Because of this, you should figure out why you snore before you decide to use a mouthpiece. A doctor or nurse can help you figure out why you’re snoring and help you choose the best treatment.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Although mouth appliances are generally safe, they can cause some side effects, particularly when first used. Common issues include:
- Jaw discomfort: As the device adjusts the position of the jaw, it can cause soreness in the jaw muscles or teeth. This discomfort usually diminishes over time as your body adjusts to the device.
- Excessive salivation: Some users may experience an increase in saliva production when using a mouth appliance. This side effect is usually temporary and goes away once your body adapts.
- Teeth or gum irritation: If the mouth appliance doesn’t fit properly, it can cause irritation to the gums or teeth. It’s important to ensure the appliance fits well to avoid these issues.
To avoid these side effects, it’s best to opt for a custom-fitted appliance made by a dentist, as this will ensure a more comfortable and effective fit.
Conclusion
Mouthpieces for snoring can help a lot of people, especially those whose snoring is caused by an obstruction in their throat. By moving the jaw or keeping the tongue stable, these devices help keep the mouth open, which cuts down on or gets rid of snoring. Some people, especially those with serious sleep apnea, should not wear them, though. Talking to a doctor about a mouthpiece for breathing is important before you try it to make sure it’s the right choice for you. It’s possible that a mouthpiece could help you and your partner get a good night’s sleep after a long night of being up and restless.
