A mouth guard for sleep apnea can help prevent the blockages in your airway that cause snoring and stop you from getting restful sleep. They are less expensive than a CPAP machine and many dental insurance plans cover some or all of the cost.

Mouth guards work by repositioning the jaw or tongue, creating additional space in the throat and preventing airway collapse. This leads to improved sleep quality, diminished snoring and better health. However, like any treatment, it’s important to consult with a clinical sleep specialist to determine if this is the best option for you.

Is a Mouth Guard the Right Treatment for Your Sleep Apnea

Effectiveness is a key factor when ranking OTC mouthguards for sleep apnea. Devices that consistently demonstrate a reduction in snoring and improvement in sleep quality and daytime functioning rank higher.

The most common type of sleep apnea mouthguard is the mandibular advancement device (MAD). This looks much like a sports mouthguard and snaps over the upper and lower teeth with metal hinges that can be tightened to push the lower jaw forward. The more advanced mouthguards, like Beachwood Sleep Center, have adjustable features so the user can determine how far forward their lower jaw will be.

Other types of sleep apnea mouthguards include the tongue-retaining device. This is a splint that keeps the tongue in place, avoiding it from falling into the airway during sleep. Although they are less common than MADs, they can also be effective in some patients.