Top 3 reasons why anti-snoring mouthguard falls out at night

Snorers who are new to oral appliances occasionally face challenges which cause them to second guess the effectiveness of the device that they just purchased. One such challenge is dealing with a mouthpiece that falls out at night while sleeping. Since I have faced this issue in the past and periodically receive questions about this from my readers, I believe that now would be an excellent time to address this concern.

Is it normal for a snoring mouthpiece to fall out of my mouth while sleeping? In some cases, this is the norm and it does not apply to just one particular brand or style of device. I’ve noticed this issue with both mandibular advancement devices and tongue stabilizing devices produced by a number of different manufacturers. The good news is that in most cases correcting this issue is fairly simple.

There are 3 primary reasons why this occurs: insufficient adjustment period, the need for fine-tuning, or simply an error in the fitting process. Here’s a detailed explanation of each possibility and the corrective action that one must take.

Adequate adjustment period

The Cause: In most cases, those who have issues with their snoring mouthpiece falling out simply have not given their body a chance to adjust to the new device. These devices tend to work their self out of the mouth (or from the tip of the tongue in the case of a TSD) while asleep. Allowing time for adjustment often solves this issue.

The Solution: Most manufacturers suggest that new users aim for an adjustment period of about seven to ten days and I tend to agree. Allowing your body to become accustomed to the new device is a necessary step to ensure that it will remain in place throughout the night. One suggestion is to put the mouthpiece in for about an hour before falling asleep to help acclimate your mouth to wearing it. You may notice in the morning that it still falls out and ends up next to your pillow. This is absolutely normal and okay! As time passes, this will become a less common occurrence and will eventually cease altogether. Persistence and time is the key to success.

Device needs fine-tuning

The Cause: If you are still having issues with your mouthpiece falling out after a 7-10 day adjustment period, it may necessary to make some minor adjustments to allow for a closer fit. Depending on the manufacturer, you may be able to trim, remold, stretch, or make advancement adjustments. Before performing any modifications, be sure to read over the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

The Solution: The best way to start is by listening to your body. Is there a particular part of your mouth that seems to become sore after wearing the device? How close does it fit your teeth and the inside of your mouth? Is there a lot of “play” or “wiggle room” when the mouthguard is installed? These are a few questions that you may want to ask yourself in order to determine where to make adjustments.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting any modifications. In some cases, you may simply need to reheat the thermoplastic material and take a new impression of your teeth while other times your appliance may require an advancement adjustment or simply a trimming of excess material.

Improper use

The Cause: Occasionally a snorer will attempt to use a product without first reading over and understanding the fitting instructions. While this may be the least common of the three reasons, it’s something that should still be taken into consideration. If you have allowed time for an adequate adjustment period, have fine-tuned your device and are still having issues with it falling out, you may want to review the fitting instructions.

The Solution: A simple oversight can easily be the cause of your problem. For instance, did you know that all such devices have an “upside” and “downside”? Perhaps you have fitted it upside-down?

In some cases, the user will try to heat and shape a device that was not designed to do so. Several oral appliances on the market are considered “boil and bite” but not necessarily all of them. For instance, the Zquiet, and the GMSS typically work right out of the box and should not be heated and shaped.

While you may have read the instructions once, go back and take a second look. In some cases, you will find a simple oversight is to blame for an issue that you may be experiencing.

What if these solutions do not work?

If you carefully examine the above causes and corrective action, you will find that 95% of the time this issue will resolve itself. However, it could be the case that you are not a good candidate for an oral appliance. Before throwing in the towel, take advantage of the customer service that is provided by the company who produces your particular device. Most of them are eager and more than willing to assist you with any issues that you may be experiencing. They may, for instance, send you a larger (or smaller) model that may offer a better fit or perhaps give additional advice to help prevent their device from falling out of your mouth.

Whatever you do, don’t give up immediately. The snoring mouthguard really does work great once you become accustomed to wearing one. When first introduced to the oral appliance, I too had experienced issues keeping it in my mouth throughout the night. Had I given up early on, I would have missed out on an effective and inexpensive solution to my snoring problem.

Which mouthpiece should I buy?

The anti-snoring mouthpiece is one of the most highly effective stop snoring solutions available. With over 100 different products to choose from, deciding which one to buy can be challenging.

As a snorer and product reviewer, I have tried many of these devices and created a list of recommended devices that will help to make this decision much easier.

Why some choose a mouthpiece over the CPAP

One of the most common questions that are often asked is: “Can I use a snoring mouthpiece as an alternative to my CPAP machine for sleep apnea?”. This is an excellent question that deserves a thorough answer. Sleep apnea and snoring often go hand in hand. In fact, snoring may indicate that there is an underlying issue such as sleep apnea which if left untreated could lead to health issues. Once diagnosed with sleep apnea, patients have often issued a continuous positive airway pressure machine, also known as a “CPAP”. Unfortunately, these machines are commonly abandoned by their owner because they are known to be uncomfortable to wear at night. These individuals either stop treatment altogether or seek an alternative treatment method.

An alternative to the CPAP

The Aveotds is often prescribed to treat OSA

The mandibular advancement device (MAD) and tongue stabilizing devices (TSD) are a couple devices that are commonly brought up by doctors when asked about alternatives to the CPAP. The MAD fits between the teeth, sort of like an athletic mouth guard, and uses the leverage of the upper teeth to hold the lower jaw forward. Holding the lower jaw forward widens a restricted air passage and prevents airway collapse. Alternatively, the TSD attaches to the tip of the tongue and holds the tongue forward along with several other associated muscles.

The “Good Morning Snore Solution” can be purchased online and is quite similar to the Aveotsd.

The effects are similar to the TSD yet the device does not take up as much room in the mouth. MAD’s and TSD’s are typically prescribed by a doctor and usually cost a small fortune. In many cases, the device itself costs over $1,500 plus the additional cost of several doctors visits for checkups and adjustments. While it is becoming increasingly common for insurance to cover these expenses, there are still several insurance companies out there who will not pay for such treatments despite proven results. Once made aware of the high prices associated with this treatment option, individuals sometimes seek out less expensive alternatives. One such alternative that often surfaces is the snoring mouthpiece.

What’s really the difference between the OTC type vs prescribed?

An example of a “professionally fitted device”

An example of an “OTC snoring mouthpiece” device

So what is the difference between a snoring mouthpiece and a sleep apnea mouthpiece? This article does a fairly good job at explaining the similarities and differences between the two. In a nutshell, professionally fitted devices are usually constructed of a durable material and are often adjustable by a doctor. Perhaps the greatest factor that sets a doctor prescribed device apart from an internet ordered device has to do with having a trained medical professional overseeing the treatment process. They are able to measure effectiveness, make adjustments, and check for issues such as teeth movement.

In contrast, the snoring mouthpiece often mimics the apnea mouthpiece in appearance and function. As for the OTC MAD, there are several devices that are available that can be custom fitted using a thermoplastic resin and can also be adjusted in small increments. The OTC TSD versions such as the GMSS are almost identical to the professional issued versions such as the AveoTSD. In either case, the biggest difference with the snoring mouthpiece is the intended use. Snoring mouthpieces are intended to be used to treat snoring exclusively, meaning benign or simple snoring where sleep apnea is not involved. These devices are available online and are self-fitted. Some manufacturers make you fill out a questionnaire before allowing you to make a purchase to ensure that your oral health is up to par. This questionnaire also covers them in the event that any legal issues arise from improper use of the device.

Is it possible to treat OSA with a snoring mouthpiece?

In the end, most people simply want to know if they can substitute an OTC snoring mouthpiece for a CPAP machine. After all, over-the-counter devices often sell for a fraction of the price and seem to be very similar in nature. The answer to this question really depends on your individual circumstances. There are individuals out there who have had success substituting one for the other. However, one should not make this decision alone. There are many factors that determine whether or not you may be a good candidate for a substitution. Teeth and gum health, severity and type of apnea, along with several other factors will help doctors to determine this. Some doctors are agreeable when it comes to using internet ordered devices to treat mild to moderate cases of OSA while others are completely against the idea (sometimes due to reasons of monetary loss). If you are interested in using a snoring mouthpiece to treat your sleep apnea, first ask your doctor if there is a particular device that he or she is familiar with and would recommend. If not, do some research and pick out a potential device that you are interested in. Gather information on the device and ask your doctor for their professional opinion before proceeding any further. This website offers a mouthpiece comparison chart which is loaded with lots of great information that will help to make this decision easier. If your doctor does, in fact, recommend or approve the use of a snoring mouthpiece to treat your apnea then it’s now up to you to decide. Be sure to follow up with your doctor with any questions or concerns that you may have. Also, you should be closely monitored by your doctor while using such a device.

Ask your doctor

When it comes to using an internet ordered mouthpiece to treat OSA many people search high and low for a simple “yes” or “no” answer. As mentioned, the answer to this question should not and can not be simply answered by information found online. As already stressed, It’s very important to consult with a properly qualified medical professional to answer this question. They will be able to offer the best guidance to help you determine whether or not a particular device is a good fit for your particular situation.

Which mouthpiece should I buy?

The anti-snoring mouthpiece is one of the most highly effective stop snoring solutions available. With over 100 different products to choose from, deciding which one to buy can be challenging. As a snorer and product reviewer, I have tried many of these devices and created a list of recommended devices that will help to make this decision much easier.Share This Post:

A mouthpiece can be an excellent solution when it comes to preventing snoring. However, if you’ve had dental work performed such as dentures (full or partial) bridge work, or crowns (caps), you may have a number of questions related to your ability to use a mandibular advancement device. Several manufacturers fail to address this concern, leaving potential customers in the dark. The following information should help clear up some of the confusion surrounding such devices.

The mechanics of the mandibular advancement device

Before discussing whether or not a mouthpiece is a good fit, it’s important to first understand exactly how most mouthpieces work. Whether you are interested in the Zquiet, Vitalsleep, Snoremender, or any other mandibular advancement device, they all work by using the same principle – advancing the jaw by pushing out on lower six front teeth while applying inward pressure on the upper front teeth. Keep in mind that this does not necessarily mean that all MAD’s are created equal as some are more comfortable to wear and better built than others.

Since this type of mouthpiece relies on the presence of strong upper and lower front teeth, many manufacturers recommend that you do not use such a device if you have loose or missing teeth, particularly in the front. What about those who wear dentures or have bridges or caps? Is it possible to use a standard mandibular advancement device to prevent snoring?

Using a mouthpiece with full or partial dentures

One of the most common questions often asked by snorers is whether or not one with full or partial dentures can use a MAD. Most mouthpiece manufactures recommend against using a MAD if you wear full dentures. Those who wear partials may have the ability to use such a device. Remember, strong upper and lower front teeth are a necessity. Generally speaking, if your partials are in the front portion of your upper or lower teeth then you are likely not a good candidate for a mouthpiece. The best practice is to show your dentist the device that you are interested in and ask if it would be a good fit considering your partials.

Bridges, crowns, and missing teeth

Perhaps you have bridge or crown work and would like to know whether or not a mouthpiece is a good idea. As with partial dentures, the answer greatly depends on the position of your bridge(s) or crown(s) and the overall health of your remaining natural teeth. Those who have bridges or crowns located at the rear of the gums would certainly be a better candidate than those who’ve had work done on the front teeth. Strong, healthy teeth at the front of the mouth are a requirement which should not be overlooked.

If you have missing teeth this may present another challenge when it comes to wearing an anti-snoring device. Once again, you should consider the location of the missing teeth and the overall health of the surrounding teeth. As always, consult with your dentist if you have questions related to your particular situation.

Is there an alternative anti-snoring device for those who can’t use a MAD?

The “Good Morning Snore Solution” can be a great substitute for a mandibular advancement device

So you have concluded that a traditional snoring mouthpiece may not be a good decision. Perhaps your oral health is not up to par or dental work such as dentures, crowns or bridges are preventing you from moving forward with this decision. Are there any other solutions out there that may work for you? Fortunately, there is a product out there called the Good Morning Snore Solution which works using a completely different principle. The GMSS is considered a “Tongue Stabilizing Device” (TSD) and controls snoring by holding the tongue forward in lieu of the lower jaw. Since this particular device rests on the outside of the lips and does not require the use of teeth as leverage points, the manufacturer suggests that it can be used by denture wearers. The same could also be true for those who have had other dental work such as bridges, caps, or even missing teeth.

Does this TSD work? How effective is it in comparison traditional MAD devices?

I have experimented with the GMSS and can tell you firsthand that it works quite well. The device attaches to the tip of your tongue using a suction bulb that resembles a pacifier and rests on the outside of your lips. The sensation is odd at first but you will eventually become accustomed to wearing one. I’ve had great success with the GMSS and would recommend it as an alternative to the typical MAD. As for overall effectiveness, several studies have been conducted comparing the MAD to the TSD. The results indicated that a TSD such as the GMSS is often just as effective at controlling snoring as a MAD.

A word of caution

As always, it is advisable that you consult with your physician or dentist before deciding to treat a snoring issue. This is especially true if you have any of the above-mentioned conditions. Evaluation of the potential use of a MAD should be completed on a case-by-case basis by a qualified medical professional. Everyone’s situation is unique and this should be taken into consideration before moving forward with any treatment.

Which mouthpiece should I buy?

The anti-snoring mouthpiece is one of the most highly effective stop snoring solutions available. With over 100 different products to choose from, deciding which one to buy can be challenging.

As a snorer and product reviewer, I have tried many of these devices and created a list of recommended devices that will help to make this decision much easier.Share This Post:

While searching for a stop snoring device several months back I came across a product that was like no other. This device was called the “Good Morning Snore Solution” and unlike several other products that I was familiar with, this one required no fitting and did not work by advancing the lower jaw. So how the heck does this thing work?

I knew from past experience that traditional mandibular advancement devices worked fantastic when it came to controlling even my heaviest snoring but I must admit, the tongue stabilizing device was a completely new concept to me. After reading over the manufactures explanation on exactly how this device works, I was still unclear so I decided to do some research in order to fully understand what makes the GMSS work.

What makes the GMSS work?

Understanding the anatomy of the airway

In order to fully understand how the GMSS works, you must first understand how the airway can effect snoring. As we sleep, the muscle mass in the airway tends to relax which often results in a partial blockage of this already narrow area of the throat. In some cases, the narrowing can completely cut off the flow of oxygen. This potentially dangerous condition is known as sleep apnea and should be diagnosed and treated by a sleep medicine specialist. In other cases, the loose muscle and tissues in this area flap against each other as we breathe in and out. The “flapping” of these tissues is often cited as the source of the sounds associated with snoring.

You may be wondering why some snore while others do not. For most who snore, the area just behind the tongue combine with the uvula are responsible for the vast majority of snoring. What factors play a role in determining whether or not a person snores? Here are a couple of the most common contributing factors.

• You genetics. Snoring may simply be caused by your genetics. Physical features that cause snoring could have easily have been passed down from your mother, father or both parents. Individuals who have a malocclusion (overbite) have a jaw that’s naturally recessed which can ultimately cause a narrowing airway. It’s also possible that something as simple as the shape of your airway is to blame for a snoring problem.
• Being overweight.  Here’s one that you may not have expected but being overweight can cause snoring issues. Having a few extra pounds means that extra fat deposits tend to accumulate around the neck and while laying down the fat pushes against your airway, causing a partial collapse or complete closure in some cases. The effects can be heightened depending on the position of your head.

So how does it work?

It turns out that there are actually two clinically proven types of mouthpieces that can be used to prevent snoring. The traditional mandibular advancement device or MAD works by tightening the muscles inside the throat where the airway often becomes narrow by holding the mandible in the advanced or forward position. Doing so also pulls the muscles which surround the airway tight. With the tongue stabilizing devices such as the GMSS, the tongue itself is held forward, not the jaw. This method actually packs a one-two punch as it not only opens up the airway but also prevents the tongue from falling back into the throat which is yet another cause of snoring for some people.

The overall success rate of the GMSS is greatly dependent upon the source of your snoring. If the source comes from the back of the throat, behind the tongue then there is a good chance that this device will work great. The good news is that this is the most common area where snoring occurs for most people.

The Good Morning Snore Solution attaches to the end of your tongue using a suction bulb. The tongue is held forward between the teeth and the lips. Holding the tongue forward also stretches the muscles in the airway as we discussed earlier. Muscles are stretched – the airway tightens up and open – tissue no longer flaps around – problem solved!

So how can you tell if this device will work for you? The best way is to simply try it out. One thing that I like about the company behind this product is that they offer a money back guarantee so if you don’t like it simply return it for a refund. However, you can try this right now to get an idea of how it may work for you.

1. Imitate the snoring sound while awake. Go ahead, look around and make sure no one watching.
2. As you imitate the sound of snoring, stick out your tongue and hold your tongue in place with your thumb and index finger.
3. Listen closely. Did the sound of snoring lessen or completely stop? If so then a tongue stabilizing device such as the GMSS may be a good choice for you.

Success rate of the device

One nice thing about this device is that it’s one of the few that have actually clinically tested and proven to work. The creator Dr. Leslie Dort published a study in the Journal of Sleep and Breathing in 2008. The study concluded that 70% of subjects confirmed that this tongue stabilizing device did, in fact, work for them. The success rate of this device is comparable to the success rate of the tried and true mandibular advancement device.

The conclusion?

This anti snoring device is just as effective as most MAD’s on the market. In addition, it offers several distinct advantages over other devices. First, the product does not actually go in between the teeth. This frees up room inside the mouth, preventing the feeling of a bulky mouthpiece. In addition, there is no fitting process involved. Almost all MAD’s require that you heat them in order to create an impression. Others require that you trim or stretch the device in order to create a custom fit. With the GMSS these steps are not necessary or even suggested. Simply rinse off and attach to the end of your tongue.

Still looking for more info?

If you are interested in learning more about this device I have created a detailed review of this product which also includes a short video where I talk about my experience using this device. You can also visit the manufacturer’s website using the link below to find out more information including clinical data.

Visit GMSS Website

Which mouthpiece should I buy?

The anti-snoring mouthpiece is one of the most highly effective stop snoring solutions available. With over 100 different products to choose from, deciding which one to buy can be challenging.

As a snorer and product reviewer, I have tried many of these devices and created a list of recommended devices that will help to make this decision much easier.Share This Post:

When snoring becomes a problem which products actually work?

Several years ago I discovered that I had a snoring problem. Well, actually it was my wife who discovered my problem. In an effort to find relief and save our marriage, I began a quest to find a stop snoring product that actually works.

My search began on the internet and what I found was a plethora of products being sold that all claimed to put an end to your snoring. Everything from oral sprays and nasal sprays to chin straps, pills, and even pillows. Then there were, of course, the natural remedies which work for some but didn’t work for me. I, however, needed something that would silence the sound of my snoring before the two of us began sleeping in separate bedrooms. I literally spent hours over the course of several days reading review after review of the mentioned products. Unfortunately, each time I would hit a roadblock as customers who commented on these products often dismissed their effectiveness.

Seeking the advice of my doctor

As time went on, my snoring continued so I decided to seek the advice of my doctor who evaluated my snoring and concluded that well, I simply snore. I asked him about treatment options and he suggested that I try the basics which included sleeping on the side, elevating the head, avoiding alcohol and so on. Having tried all of these suggestions I asked him if there were any additional solution. This is when he told me about the oral appliance, also referred to as snoring mouthpieces.

Okay, this sounds interesting. He further explained that these devices work by holding the mandible (lower jaw) in the forward position while sleeping. The advanced position of the jaw tightens the muscles surrounding the airway, preventing them from vibrating against each other. The vibration of tissues in the airway is typically the primary cause of the snoring sounds that we are all familiar with. He had me sold and I was ready to move forward until of course, he started talking cost.

There are actually several different brands available including – the Tap III, Somnomed, Silent Partner, Somnodent, Myerson EMA, Snore Silencer Pro, SnoreFree, the SUAD device, and the list goes on. “So how much will one of these fancy sports mouth guards cost me,” I ask. My doctor responds “$1,500 – $3,500 for the device plus the cost of the initial examination and follow-up appointments. Would you like a referral?” “Whoa,” I responded. “I’ll have to think about that one.”

Less costly alternative to custom oral appliances

Later that night I began to search online for some type of at home oral appliances. You know, the do-it-yourself version of a mouthpiece. I found quite a few such devices and astonishingly, most of them cost less than $100. Well, a hundred dollars certainly sounds more reasonable than $1,500 plus. After doing some searching I started to realize that within the OTC snoring mouthpiece industry there was a bit of debate as to which device was most effective at preventing snoring. Some devices offered features such as the ability to adjust while others were held in a fixed position. Some offered breather ports while others did not. Some created a custom impression using boil and bite technology while others were sent off to a laboratory to be created. It soon became increasingly clear that making a decision among OTC oral snoring devices were not going to be easy at all.

The seemingly endless number of features that were available in each mouthpiece presented a challenge that I wasn’t quite prepared to take on. After reading over literally hundreds of pages of information and medical studies on oral appliances, I had I fairly good idea of what was considered desirable and what was not. However, I soon realized that while a device may work for one individual, it may not work for another. In other words, there was no “best” oral appliance for everyone per se. With this in mind, I set out on a journey to find which ones actually works and which ones do not. After all, purchasing twenty internet ordered devices would still cost significantly less than just one that was custom fitted by a doctor.

Snoring mouthpiece experiment

Over the next year or two, I had ordered well over a dozen OTC snoring devices. Most differed slightly while some were designed like no other. Here are a few notable features that I considered while going through each device.

• Breather holes vs non-breather holes
• Thermoplastic material vs acrylic resins materials
• Adjustable vs. non-adjustable mandibular setting
• Soft construction materials vs. hard construction materials
• Boil and bite fitted vs laboratory created
• Tongue stabilizer vs non-stabilizer
• BPA free vs non-BPA free
• FDA cleared vs Non-FDA cleared
• Clinically studied vs. no clinical study
• Jaw advancing vs. tongue stabilizing

You may be wondering why I would order so many different products. The end goal was to find a device that offered both comfort and longevity while keeping the overall price in mind. For several months I ordered mouthpieces and put them to the test. Some were only used for a couple weeks and then stored away while others I still use today.

The results

The results of this experiment may surprise you as it certainly did, in fact, come as a surprise to me. Almost all of the devices that I experimented with did, in fact, stop my snoring. So we know that the principle of the mandibular advancement device is in fact valid.

There was, however, some major differences when it came to comfort and usability. For instance, some more primitive devices made wearing the appliance feel much like having a mouth full of plastic or the feel as if someone stuffed a sock in my oral cavity. Others proved to be deficient when it came to durability and long useful life. Then there was the issue of adjustability. While I was able to obtain a fairly good impression and advancement position with several simple boil and bite devices, some had to be refitted by completing the fitting process over and over again in order to achieve the proper advancement. From this, I learned that in many cases, having the ability to adjust the advancement of a MAD’s was a nice feature.

In the end, I created this guide table which will give you an idea of what’s available on the market. This table allows you to sort by categories such as total price, ranking, device type, and product name.

If you are a snorer, I suggest that try out an oral appliance (or several if you are feeling ambitious). As mentioned, there are some really great devices on the market that seem to work quite well. Take a look at the mentioned guide table and choose a device that makes sense to you. If your interested, I created this page which offers my recommendation based on the many products that I have tried personally.

When faced with a snoring problem it’s important that you find relief quickly as what may seem like a laughing matter can easily escalate into larger marital problems. Mouthpieces a real snoring solution that actually works.

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Simple disposable foam earplugs could do the job

If you happen to live with someone who snores, there is a good chance that you have at least considered the use of earplugs in a desperate attempt to enjoy a peaceful uninterrupted night of rest.

Earplugs come in several different styles including expandable foam, shaped silicone, musician style, custom fitted and even electronic earplugs. Each style is designed to filter out a specified amount of sound measured in decibels.  Overall, they are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased just about anywhere.

The use of earplugs to block out snoring

So you have decided to try out a set of earplugs in order to drown out your partner’s loud snoring. What are the best earplugs for snoring?

Generally speaking, your best choice in hearing protection is going to be a soft foam plug with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 30 or greater. There are numerous inexpensive products which meet this requirement. Many of them can be purchased online or at your local drug store such as the one pictured above. Another option is to have your doctor create a pair that is custom fitted to the shape of your ear canals.

When choosing a pair of earplugs, pay close attention to the NRR rating which is the most important factor that should be used to compare one product to another. The NRR is simply indicating the number of reduced decibels of sound.  The sound rating of snoring is usually between 50 dB for a light snorer and 80 dB for a heavy snorer. This is equivalent to the sound of an average conversation all the way up to the sound of a running gasoline powered lawnmower! By using a pair of 30 NRR earplugs, you can reduce the sound level of most snoring down to the equivalent of a whisper.

Disposable vs reusable

There is some debate when it comes to disposable vs reusable as far as which is better. As for effectiveness, when installed properly a disposable set of earplugs with an NRR of 30 should block out 30 dB of sound just as effectively as a pair of reusable plugs with an NRR of 30.  Reusables, of course, offer a long-term cost savings advantage. Keep in mind that special care should be taken while cleaning reusables to avoid ear infections.

If you are interested a short-term, low-cost solution to muffle your partners snoring then disposables are perfect. If you want to spend a little bit more up front to save in the long run and don’t mind thoroughly cleaning your earplugs, then a reusable set may be a better choice.

Either way, the product should stand up to its NRR claims whether disposable or reusable.

Choosing a pair

The reality of choosing a pair of earplugs comes down to comfort and effectiveness.

In general, both disposable and reusable types are fairly inexpensive, costing just a few dollars for one pair of reusable or a few dollars for several pairs of disposables. This means that comfort and effectiveness are most important. As for comfort, compare the softness of the material used. Some plugs exert less outward pressure on the ear canal, making them more comfortable to wear over a longer period of time.

As discussed above, choose a pair with a 30 or greater noise reduction rating. This will provide the best level of protection against the sound of your partners snoring. Do they sound more like a lawnmower when they snore? You will want to choose some with a higher NRR to ensure a peaceful night’s rest.

Are earplugs really a snoring solution?

Earplugs are often used to block out the sound of a partners snoring but is this really a solid solution? The reality is that it’s much better to address the source of the sound which in this case is your partner. The fact is, your partner’s snoring could be reduced by using a simple device such as a mandibular advancement splint. In some cases, their snoring may be an indicator of a more serious condition such as sleep apnea and should not be ignored by putting earplugs into your ears.

Before resorting to earplugs, have your partner discuss their snoring problem with their doctor. An experienced doctor should be able to evaluate their condition and help to decide whether or not they should consult with a sleep specialist concerning the possibility of a medical issue. In other cases, snoring may be classified as benign snoring meaning that it should not cause damage to their health.

If it turns out that they simply snore, treating the sounds associated with simple snoring can be achieved using a snoring mouthpiece. These devices range in price between $40-$200 and in most areas are only available online. I’ve experimented with nearly 2 dozen different types of mouthpieces and posted a list of recommended devices here.

There are of course professionally fitted mouthguards that can cost hundreds, even thousands of dollars and are available from your doctor. Either way, they all work by gently holding the lower jaw in a forward position which helps to create a tight and clear passageway for air to travel.

Using a pair of earplugs is technically not treating the source of the problem. We are talking about your partner’s snoring problem, not yours. Why should you be the one wearing earplugs?

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Snoring is an issue that affects between 94 and 157 million Americans each year. Such a widespread issue gets a lot of attention from snorers and particularly those who have to live with them. An increasing number of snore relief products have hit the shelves in the past decade. A few of these products work to some degree while others are simply not at all effective.

One product that has received a lot of attention recently is the snore relief mouthpiece. While the concept of this device is nothing groundbreaking, an increasing number of new designs are entering the market each year. Products are continuously improved year after year, making them more comfortable, more affordable, and more effective than ever.

Snore relief mouthpiece history

Originally developed in the 1980’s, the snoring relief mouthpiece was commonly referred to as a “mandibular advancement device”, “mandibular advancement splint“, or simply an “oral appliance”. The initial use and research were primarily focused on the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Since OSA and snoring are often closely related, someone saw an opportunity to market the device to the masses as a snoring mouthpiece in the early 1990’s.

The original OTC mouthpieces were constructed of a thermoplastic material which is designed to hold the lower jaw forward. Advancements were made over the years and today’s devices are slimmer, more adjustable and more comfortable than ever before. While some manufacturers stick with the original design, more sophisticated designs are able to accommodate a wider variety of snorers.

How do they work?

When most people see a snore relief mouthpiece they often question the effectiveness of such a device. After all, how does a simple piece of plastic placed in the mouth stop snoring?

These small devices work by holding the lower jaw in a slightly forward position using the upper teeth as a point of leverage. Only a millimeter or two of advancement beyond where the upper teeth meet the lower teeth usually does the job. With the lower jaw in the forward position, a series of muscles and soft tissue which lines the throat “tightens” up. The tightening action makes the airway less restrictive making it less likely for airway tissues to flap around. In the majority of cases, these vibrating tissues are to blame for the sound of snoring.

The Good Morning Snore Solution is a type of Tongue Stabilizing Device.

While most of today’s products work by advancing the lower jaw, there is a special product classified as a “tongue stabilizing devices”. This type of device works using a similar concept yet holds the tongue forward. It sticks to the end of the tongue using suction created by a small bulb. An example of this type of device is the Good Morning Snore Solution or the AveoTSD.

As you can see, there is no “magic” involved when treating snoring using this method. Unlike several other treatment options, there are no secret ingredients and no mysterious gimmicks. This snore relief product works by the use of a simple mechanics which physically tighten and opens the airway preventing the sound of snoring.

There are several factors that one should consider while selecting a device. However, the two most important factors are comfort and effectiveness. Many of the older designs are thicker which often causes a bit of discomfort. Several newer devices can be used with minimal discomfort.

How do I know if one will work for me?

Hold your jaw forward and try to make the snoring sound

While a snore relief mouthpiece works well in most cases, it’s not the solution to everyone’s snoring problem. Other issues may exist such as nasal obstructions, a deviated septum, airway abnormalities or issues with the overall jaw and airway structure. Here’s a simple test that you may want to try in order to determine whether or not such a device may be a good fit for you:

• Replicate the sound of snoring right now while awake.
• While making this sound, slowly move your lower jaw forward.

If the sound of snoring disappears or lessens then there is a good chance that it will work for you. Remember, it’s always best to discuss all snoring issues with your doctor prior to exploring the best treatment solution.

Which mouthpiece should I buy?

The anti-snoring mouthpiece is one of the most highly effective stop snoring solutions available. With over 100 different products to choose from, deciding which one to buy can be challenging.

As a snorer and product reviewer, I have tried many of these devices and created a list of recommended devices that will help to make this decision much easier.Share This Post:

We all know of someone who snores on a regular basis. This person may be a spouse, parent, family member, or perhaps even yourself. Snoring is a common nuisance that has plagued households for centuries and there are no signs of it becoming less prevalent.

Exactly how common is snoring? Over the years several surveys by a multitude of groups have asked this question and the results widely vary. Anywhere from 25% to 60% of adults confess to regular or occasional snoring. While the exact prevalence of snoring will likely continue to be a mystery for many years to come, one thing is for sure and that is the older that we become, the greater our chance of becoming a snorer.

In addition to age, obesity is also a known contributing factor that leads to snoring as extra neck tissue places damaging pressure on the airways. Mexico, the United States, New Zealand, Chile, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom are ranked among the most obese countries in the world.  So statistically speaking, you are more likely to snore if you are older and live in one of the mentioned countries.

The prevalence of snoring has sent people from all corners of the globe in search of stop snoring products. Most are interested to know what is the best treatment option available. Here are a few commonly found stop snoring products that have become available over the counter.

• Snoring pillows – These are usually a memory foam pillow used to support your head in such a way that relieves pressure on your airway which keeps it clear. They work by keeping your head elevated at a comfortable level while keeping your chin away from your chest.
• Snoring nose strips – BreatheRight is perhaps the most popular brand of snoring strips. These work by opening narrow or blocked nasal passages and allowing air to flow. If your snoring is caused by blocked passages then this product may provide some relief.
• Snoring Mouthpieces – This product addresses one of the most common causes of snoring which is loose vibrating throat tissues. In most cases, the snoring mouthpiece works by holding the lower jaw forward which tightens loose tissues at the back of the throat. Other devices work in a similar fashion by holding the tongue forward. They are often referred to as tongue stabilizing devices.
• Anti-snoring rings – These devices claim to eliminate snoring by the use of acupressure. The Chinese have used acupressure for thousands of years to treat various ailments. Most acupressure rings are placed firmly on the pinkie finger before going bed. Manufacturers claim that the principle of acupressure relieves snoring.
• Positive airway pressure strips – This option has recently become available without a prescription. It’s a bandage-like device that adheres to your nose and uses microvalves which open while breathing in and close while breathing out. The closing action naturally causes positive airway pressure which keeps your airway open.
• Chin straps – This product physically holds your jaw in the closed forward position which widens the airway, reducing the possibility of restricted breathing. They usually come in several sizes and are usually adjustable
• Rollover prevention device – Is usually worn around the chest and has a large object located at the rear which prevents you from rolling over onto your back. For positional snorers, remaining on the side instead of the back can prevent snoring from occurring.

What is the best stop snoring product?

Nose strips? Chin straps? Rings? With so many options available, most people simply want to know which one is the best. In order to answer this question, you must first understand exactly what causes snoring.

While there are numerous possibilities when it comes to the causes of snoring, the most common reason has to do with a partially closed airway. As mentioned earlier, as you age muscles around the airway tend to relax and cause airway tissues to flop around. This happens to be the leading cause of the sound of snoring. If you are overweight or obese the likelihood of snoring becomes even greater. In such cases, shedding a few pounds can dramatically improve a snoring problem.

Now that we have identified the most common cause of snoring, let’s examine the mentioned stop snoring products.

Snoring pillows, nose strips, rings, and rollover devices simply do not address the issue of loose tissues in the throat. Chin straps may effectively hold the jaw closed yet rarely hold it in the forward position which actually tightens the throat muscles. Positive airway pressure strips are a newer product that uses microvalves to naturally force air through the airway, keeping the airway open. These are clinically proven to be effective 76% of the time but rather than tightening airway muscles, this product works by pressurizing the airway, sort of like a CPAP machine. While impressive, it does not directly address the core problem and is hit or miss when it comes to effectiveness.

This leaves one stop snoring product that effectively treats the most common cause of most snoring. By now you have likely read the name of this website and can venture a guess. The Snoring Mouthpiece is the most effective stop snoring product on the market today because it’s the only one that directly targets the actual problem.

Now that we have established exactly what the best stop snoring product is, let’s dig a little deeper and find out which mouthpieces actually work.

The Mandibular Advancement Device AKA “Snoring Mouthpiece”

There are currently over 100 different manufacturers producing their own version of the snoring mouthpiece. Most devices can be placed into one of five categories:

1. Simple “Boil and Bite” thermoplastic mouthguard style
2. Adjustable advancement style
3. Hinged jaw style
4. Tongue stabilizing devices
5. Custom molded style

Boil and Bite

The “boil and bite” style is by far the most widely produced mouthpiece design worldwide. Its name is derived from the fact that you must heat the device (usually in boiling water) and then bite down on it after placing into your mouth. While there are some different attributes such as the presence or absence of breathing holes, these are all similar in nature and are all generally effective. One criticism of this device is that they are often thick or “bulky” often causing a bit of discomfort, especially if you are new to such a device.

Adjustable Advancement

Since mandibular advancement devices all work by holding the lower jaw forward, it’s important that you receive just the right amount of advancement in order for them to work. Too much advancement and your jaw will ache for hours when you wake up. Too little advancement and the device will not be effective. Devices such as the Vitalsleep offer an advancement adjustment which is a key feature. Another example of an adjustable MAD is the SnoreRx. Most adjustable devices will allow you to make small incremental adjustments up to 10mm.

Hinged Jaw

The hinged jaw design offers a unique approach to solving the issue of mouthpiece bulkiness. Products such as the ZQuiet or Snoremender offer jaw advancement in a compact form. These devices are generally ready to use out of the box yet some may have to make some minor adjustments in order to ensure a proper fit. The hinged design also offers the ability to freely open and close your mouth. Other devices cause your mouth and jaw to remain in the closed position.

Tongue Stabilizing Devices

The Tongue Stabilizing device or TSD attaches to the end of your tongue and does not require any additional fitting or adjustment steps. It’s a one-size-fits-all approach to controlling snoring. These devices take up very little room in the mouth and have quickly becoming a crowd pleaser. Once available only by prescription, you can now purchase them over the counter online. One such product is the Good Morning Snore Solution.

Custom molded

Custom molded devices such as the Prosnore are created using a custom impression of your teeth. You are typically sent a kit which contains molding clay and a couple trays. The trays are filled with clay and you bite down on them to form a custom impression. This dental impression is mailed off to a laboratory where your custom device is created and then mailed back to you. This type of mouthpiece, while more expensive than other alternatives, offers a closer fit and often lasts longer.

Which of these stop snoring products do I prefer?

I have tried every type of device mentioned and have had moderate to great success with each type. Two of my favorites are the hinged jaw (such as the ZQuiet) and the TSD’s (such as the GMSS). The reason why I like these two is that they are both compact and very effective. While other devices such as the common boil and bite do actually work, I often find them to be somewhat uncomfortable on a long-term basis compared to the Zquiet or GMSS.

Which mouthpiece should I buy?

The anti-snoring mouthpiece is one of the most highly effective stop snoring solutions available. With over 100 different products to choose from, deciding which one to buy can be challenging.

As a snorer and product reviewer, I have tried many of these devices and created a list of recommended devices that will help to make this decision much easier.Share This Post: