How to Stop Snoring with a Mouth Appliance
Snoring is most commonly caused by the obstruction of moving air through the respiratory system that results in the vibration of the soft palate or uvula. The other causes of snoring are numerous, including a tense jaw, a closed throat, an obstruction of the nasal passageway, fat accumulation around the throat or sleeping on the back, which can cause the tongue to slip back and block the air passage to the throat. Snoring can be an indicator of a more serious condition such as sleep apnea, which requires the use of a continuous positive airway pressure device to aid with breathing during sleep. For less severe cases, mouth appliances may be able to help reduce snoring.
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Things You'll Need
- Dentist
- SnorBan mouthpiece
- Herbst Telescopic Appliance mandibular repositioner
- Elastic Mandibular Advancement Appliance
- MDSA Dental Oral Appliance
Instructions
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See a dentist. A dentist will be able to recommend mouth appliances that are best suited for you. In addition to recommending mouth appliances that can be purchased at a pharmacy or online, your dentist may also offer devices that are available only through dental professionals.
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Use the SnorBan mouthpiece. The SnorBan is a simple mouthpiece worn during sleep that is designed to prevent the windpipe from closing by gently holding the lower jaw forward. The company claims that keeping the jaw in this position will keep passing air from causing the tissue of the soft palate or uvula from vibrating.
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Try the Herbst Telescopic Appliance. This mandibular repositioning device is produced by Aztec Orthodontic Laboratories has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The device can be ordered with a prescription from your dentist on Aztec Orthodontic's website. The company claims that this adjustable device repositions the lower jaw and holds it in place to allow vertical and lateral movement of air, which will lower tissue vibration and reduce snoring.
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Use the Elastic Mandibular Advancement Appliance. This device, produced by Johns Dental Laboratories and approved by the FDA, is available through dentists. Johns Dental Laboratories claims that this device utilizes elastic straps that are adjustable to move the lower jaw into a forward position and allow for open air flow.
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Use the TheraSnore Adjustable Mandible Retention Device. Available through dentists, this device is manufactured by Distar U.S.A. and has been approved by the FDA. This device is designed for a custom fit right in the dentist's office by heating it and having the patient bite into it to make an impression. The company claims that the device forces the mandible into a protrusive position that opens the air passage for increased air flow and causes the tissue in the back section of the throat to tighten so that it doesn't vibrate.
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