What Is Oral Appliance for Snoring?

Snoring is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Frequent and loud snoring may seem harmless, but it can disrupt sleep and strain relationships. It can also signal health issues like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). For individuals seeking a non-invasive and convenient solution, oral appliances for snoring have become an increasingly popular choice. Let’s explore how these devices work, their benefits, and why they might be the right solution for you.

What Is an Oral Appliance for Snoring?

An oral appliance for snoring is a custom-made dental device worn in the mouth during sleep. It looks like a mouthguard or retainer. It is made to keep your airway open by moving your jaw or tongue.

Most oral appliances for snoring fall into two categories:

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs):

These are the most commonly used oral appliances. They gently push the lower jaw forward, which helps prevent the throat muscles from collapsing and blocking the airway during sleep.

Tongue-Retaining Devices (TRDs):

These hold the tongue in a forward position to keep it from falling back and obstructing the airway.

By maintaining a clear airway, these appliances reduce the vibration of tissues in the throat that causes snoring.

These appliances are often recommended for patients who snore frequently or suffer from mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Unlike bulky CPAP machines, oral appliances are compact, silent, and easy to use.

Getting a full night of sleep is essential to your overall health. Being well rested helps you to feel good and to function at your best. One of the most common problems that can affect the quality of your sleep is snoring. According to statistics, about 90 million individuals in the United States snore while they sleep. While for about half of these people the problem is simply snoring, the others may be afflicted with a serious disorder known as sleep apnea. Therefore, before any type of treatment can be prescribed, it must be determined whether the problem is sleep apnea or “simple” snoring.

If it is determined that your problem is simply snoring, and you are what is known as a primary snorer, then an oral appliance can help you as well as any of your roommates enjoy a quieter and more comfortable sleep. A custom fabricated oral appliance to address snoring fits somewhat like a sports mouthguard or orthodontic retainer and is only worn while you sleep. As a removable and non-invasive treatment for snoring, your appliance slightly repositions your jaw to allow for a less restricted airflow to promote a quieter and more restful sleep.

Benefits of Using an Oral Appliance for Snoring

There are several advantages to choosing an oral appliance for snoring:

Comfort and Convenience:

These devices are small, portable, and easy to clean. Unlike CPAP machines, they don’t require electricity or a mask, making them ideal for travel.