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Are Anti-Snoring Mouthpieces Comfortable?

mouth pieceAnti-snoring mouthpieces are an effective form of treatment for many cases of sleep apnea, and they’re often used when a patient finds CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy too uncomfortable.

What is An Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece?

An anti-snoring mouthpiece is used to treat chronic snoring and sleep apnea. It’s worn only at night and works by gently pushing your lower jaw slightly forward, which prevents the base of your tongue from falling back and blocking your airway while you sleep.

Are These Devices Comfortable?

Anti-snoring mouth pieces can be purchased over the counter, but these can cause discomfort, since they’re not specifically made for the shape of your jaw and the uniqueness of your mouth & teeth. In addition to its discomfort, an over-the-counter device may be ineffective or even actually make your sleep apnea worse.

In contrast, a custom-designed anti-snoring mouthpiece has a better chance of fitting comfortably, since it’s made to fit the unique shape mouth. Your doctor will make impressions of your teeth and send these to the lab so your custom-fitted appliance can be created. When it’s completed, you’ll return to your doctor’s office so it can be fitted and adjusted to ensure that it’s effective at coaxing your jaw and tongue forward while fitting comfortably. You’ll also have follow-up visits to ensure that the oral appliance is working as designed.

Who Makes a Good Candidate for An Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece?

Anti-snoring mouthpieces are often used for patients who have tried to use a CPAP machine but find it to be too uncomfortable. CPAP machines have tubing and a mask attached, and you wear the mask over your nose/mouth as a continuous flow of air helps keep your airway open. Many patients find the mask to be irritating and also dislike the feeling created by the air flow. For these patients, anti-snoring mouthpieces often provide a comfortable, effective alternative.

For some patients, anti-snoring mouthpieces may be used in combination with CPAP, allowing your CPAP to function at a lower, more tolerable pressure.

If you’re experiencing chronic snoring and/or have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, make an appointment today with Dr. Levin at eos dental sleep in Philadelphia, PA. He has received advanced training in oral appliance therapy and can provide a custom-made, comfortable device that meet your needs.