Loud snoring vs. sleep apnea: What’s the difference?

A common question often asked by snorers is “What is the difference between plain loud snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?”. Sometimes, loud snoring is simply caused by the vibration of tissues in the airway. Other times, OSA is involved and actually causes a partial or complete physical blockage of the airway while sleeping. In some cases, OSA is accompanied by snoring while other times OSA can occur with no signs of snoring at all. To further complicate matters, snoring may occur exclusively without OSA. As you can see, understanding the relationship between the two can be quite challenging.

Perhaps you are a snorer and have seen the television ads for an anti-snoring mouthguard. Understanding the difference between simple snoring and sleep apnea is important and should be considered before ordering such a device.

What exactly is sleep apnea?

As mentioned, sleep apnea occurs when an individual stops breathing for several seconds and in some cases minutes. This occurrence is commonly referred to as an “apneic event”. There are three different types of sleep apnea:

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea: As the name suggests, Obstructive Sleep Apnea occurs when the airway is obstructed or collapsed. As one can imagine, breathing with a collapsed airway can be difficult if not impossible. This is the most common type of sleep apnea.
• Central Sleep Apnea: While less common than OSA, Central Sleep Apnea occurs when breathing stops while sleeping and is caused by the failure of the brain to send the proper signals to stimulate muscles which control breathing.
• Complex Sleep Apnea: A recently discovered type of apnea is called Complex Sleep Apnea. This is simply a combination of both Obstructive and Central Sleep Apnea.

Some suggest that up to 80% of all cases of sleep apnea are undiagnosed. Exactly why is this the case? While there are several possible reasons why lack of awareness by both individuals and doctors are two likely causes.

Personal Awareness

Most individuals may have never even heard of sleep apnea or are even able to recognize some of the signs that they may have an issue. Why is this the case? Well, since apneic events occur while asleep, you are obviously not awake while this is happening. This makes it difficult to pinpoint exactly when it occurs.

As you fall asleep, the muscles and tissue around the airway relax and begin to sag. These tissues and muscles can relax so much that the airway completely closes shut. At this point, your body struggles to breathe and you gasp for air. In response to a lack of oxygen, your brain screams “wake up!”. You regain consciousness barely enough to clear the airway and take your next breath. Within seconds you are back asleep and this process repeats over and over, perhaps several hundred times per night. You wake up in the morning sleepy and perhaps with a slight headache.

Unfortunately, in most cases, individuals with apnea are not conscious enough to recall the numerous events that have occurred throughout the night. Apnea can occur for several months or years before diagnosed if diagnosed at all.

Here are a few symptoms of sleep apnea that you may notice:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness, perhaps falling asleep while driving or at other unacceptable time
• Morning headaches
• Lack of energy
• Pauses in breathing
• Loud snoring
• Difficulty concentrating
• High blood pressure
• Waking up short of breath
• Irritability or depression
• Dry mouth / Sore throat in morning

General Practitioner Awareness

In addition to lack of awareness on the individuals part, some suggest a lack of awareness from general practitioners. While the prevalence of sleep apnea has been known for several years now, there are numerous physicians who allow their patients to miss a proper diagnosis simply because they are not considering the possibility that sleep apnea may be causing some issues that their patients are experiencing.

For instance, new evidence suggests that many children and adults are being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) when in fact they are suffering from a sleep disorder such as OSA. Here’s an article from the Huffington Post that explains in further detail.

A More recent discovery suggests that several cases of anxiety and depression may actually be caused by sleep apnea. The lack of oxygen and build up of carbon dioxide from apnea can be the cause of both anxiety and depression.

As you can see, there is certainly a need for a rise in awareness by both doctors and patients.

What’s snoring

Snoring, more specifically benign snoring is much easier to define in comparison to sleep apnea. Simple snoring occurs when the tissues in the throat and airway flap against each other. This creates the sound that most of us are familiar with. Once again,  it’s entirely possible to have sleep apnea and snore at the same time. In fact, snoring is a sign of sleep apnea. If you are a light, moderate, or an even heavy snorer, you should not simply write off a snoring issue as simply benign.

So how can I tell the difference between OSA and snoring?

If you are considering the use of a snoring mouthpiece or Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) to treat your snoring, it’s imperative that you know the difference between OSA and simple snoring. After all, simple snoring is usually harmless while OSA can cause of a number of health concerns such as high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, obesity, diabetes, and the list goes on.

So how can you tell the difference between the two? There is no simple test that can determine this. If you do have apnea, you may or may not exhibit symptoms such as snoring and still have sleep apnea. Because of this, you should address any medical concerns with your doctor who will be able to make a determination whether to processed with further testing such as a sleep study or refer you to a sleep medicine specialist. In some cases, your doctor may offer an at-home sleep test which can assist with screening for sleep apnea. While this method is arguably less effective than conducting a study in a sleep lab setting, many doctors are choosing to use this method for a variety of reasons including convenience and cost.

In addition, there are other resources available that you may want to consider. Tests such as the Snore Score, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, STOP-BANG, or the Berlin Sleep Questionnaire can further assist you in determining if sleep apnea may be a concern for you. These test can be accessed at sleepapnea.org.

The bottom line is sleep apnea and snoring obviously have a relationship. Snoring does not necessarily mean that one has sleep apnea, however, it may be a symptom of OSA.  Only a qualified medical professional can determine whether one’s snoring is simply benign or related to apnea.

The AveoTSD features a long sleeve, vertical retaining tabs and a large tip

The GMSS features a short sleeve, horizontal retaining tabs, and small tip.

In recent years the Tongue Stabilizing Device (TSD) has become a popular treatment option for both snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). For years the Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) has been the most popular choice in oral appliance therapy but today TSD’s are rapidly capturing an increasing percentage of the market share.

What exactly are TSD’s? These devices attach to the tip of one’s tongue via suction and rest either on the outside of the lips (recommended) or between the lips and the teeth. They are designed to hold the tongue in the forward position, preventing it from falling to the back of one’s throat. They also pull several muscles in and around the airway tight in order to help widen the airway. Here’s a more in-depth explanation of how TSD’s work.

In comparison, the Mandibular Advancement Device or MAD fits in between the upper and lower teeth. It resembles a mouthpiece used for teeth grinding or a sports guard. This type of device uses leverage action to hold the lower jaw forward. Like the TSD, the MAD also tightens muscles and helps to widen the airway, thereby eliminating snoring.

If you currently use a MAD and have become accustomed to wearing a one, it may take a few days to adjust to a TSD. Most who use this type of anti-snoring device experience some tongue soreness during the initial 3 to 5 days of use. Once adjusted, they are fairly comfortable to wear on a nightly basis.

There are currently two major players in the TSD industry – The Good Morning Snore Solution and the AveoTSD. The GMSS was created by Dr. Leslie Dort, a Canadian dentist while the AveoTSD was invented by New Zealand dental sleep medicine specialist Dr. Chris Robertson. Both devices have been clinically proven to effectively treat snoring and mild sleep apnea in some cases.

AveoTSD and Good Morning Snore Solutions similarities and differences

Similarities

• Both the GMSS and the AveoTSD are made from a safe silicone material that is quite flexible and soft. Being soft and flexible makes it easy on the gums and comfortable to wear.
• Both devices have been clinically tested and are equally effective at treating snoring.
• Both are compact and lightweight allowing for easy handling and storage.
• Both allow you to effectively control snoring without taking up a lot of room in the mouth.
• Both have a life expectancy of 12 months or greater.
• Both are easily cleaned using denture cleaning tablets which can be purchased at any pharmacy.
• Both devices are a one size fits all solution to snoring and do not require any sort of fitting process. Simply squeeze the tip and allow the suction to draw your tongue into the bulb.

Differences

• The AveoTSD offers a longer sleeve to hold the tongue whereas the GMSS features a shorter sleeve.
• GMSS tongue suction bulb is slightly smaller and more narrow in comparison to the AveoTSD.
• The tongue retaining tabs are positioned vertically with the AveoTSD while the GMSS retaining tabs are positioned horizontally.
• Materials are of different thicknesses. The GMSS is constructed of a thinner silicone material in comparison to the thicker material of the Aveo.
• The GMSS offers a risk-free 30-day money back guarantee while the AveoTSD does not.
• The Aveo sells for approximately $140 while the GMSS sells for around $100.

Which one should I choose?

There is no denying that both devices can be a great choice when it comes to controlling the sounds associated with snoring. Both have received numerous praises from snoring suffers from around the world. So which one is better? How do you decide which one to purchase?

Overall, the two are very similar in nature and are even constructed from the same material. They both perform the same function, are comfortable to wear and easy to clean. Making a decision can be difficult when you are comparing two very similar products side by side.

The first thing to consider is availability. In some instances, one may find it difficult to locate a distributor who will ship these products to their particular country. While there are a number of reasons why this can be a challenge, the most common reason has to do with law restrictions from one country to another. In the United States, Canada, and the UK you should not have an issue ordering either device.

Personally, I’ve tried both the GMSS and AveoTSD and found both to be equally comfortable and effective. While not affecting comfort, the Aveo was however noticeably thicker in comparison to the GMSS.

In the end, the real difference comes down to the price and guarantee. The GMSS sells for $40 less than it’s opponent and comes with a money back guarantee. Because of these two reasons I favor the GMSS.

Visit GMSS Website

A note about treating sleep apnea

Keep in mind that self-treating sleep apnea using an internet ordered TSD is not advisable. Such devices are intended to treat benign snoring or simple snoring. If you are interested in treating a medical condition such as OSA with a mouthpiece, be sure to first speak with your doctor to seek their professional medical opinion. Remember, sleep apnea can lead to serious medical conditions such as high blood pressure and stroke.

It’s 3 am and you’ve been wide awake, listening to the sound of your partner snoring the night away. You turn on the TV and suddenly a late night infomercial seems to be speaking directly to you.

“Your snoring sounds like a freight train and even though you don’t know it, your partner sure does. Snoring is not healthy for you. It prevents deep restful sleep and as for your partner, it just flat out prevents them from sleeping at all. Maybe you’ve tried earplugs or sleeping in separate rooms. You may have searched for solutions such as nose strips, sprays and other gadgets. But the effective and proven way to eliminate snoring is to widen the airway in the back of the throat. That’s why for over 30 years dentist have been fitting their snoring patients with custom mouthpieces that solve snoring. But those custom devices can cost thousands and require multiple dentist visits. Now there’s and easy and affordable solution that is based on the same technology but without the high cost….”

This excerpt was taken from a Zquiet commercial that often airs on TV, especially in the early morning hours. There are actually dozens of similar “As seen on TV” type products that are designed to eliminate the sound of snoring. Most of them sell for between $60 – $100 and are guaranteed to stop your snoring or your “money back”.

History of the Snoring Mouthguard

The SnorBan, originally introduced in 1994, was one of the first OTC snoring mouthguards available.

For years, couples have struggled with bedroom nuisances such as snoring among other habits. However, snoring consistently ranks high year after year when it comes to annoying bedroom habits. The use of a snoring mouthguard is not exactly new technology. As the infomercial states, these devices, know as Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD’s) by dentists, have been used for nearly 3 decades to treat snoring and in some cases obstructive sleep apnea. It wasn’t until the mid-1990’s that the first over the counter snoring mouthpieces appeared on market. They were modeled after the MAD’s commonly used by medical professionals. The first such devices were made of a thermoplastic resin and could be self-fitted at home by heating the mouthguard in hot water for a few seconds and then placing the device in the mouth and biting down to take an impression of the teeth. For nearly 10 years, only a small handful of mouthpieces were available on the market. It wasn’t until the mid-2000’s that a wider selection of products was introduced and pushed to consumers using heavy marketing campaigns. As a result, an increasing number of couples were introduced to these “miracle” devices and their popularity surged. With an increase in popularity, a number of different manufacturers started producing their own version of the device. Today, over 100 such devices are being produced yet only a couple dozen are widely popular.

Does the “As Seen on TV” Snoring Mouthguard really work?

Mandibular advancement devices or snoring mouthguards have been around for several years now so they must be effective right? Would people really continue to purchase a product that does not work? The truth is, many such devices really do work. Numerous scientific studies have been conducted to measure the effectiveness of MAD’s on snoring. These studies were conducted using a range of different products from professionally fitted to over the counter. While the results sometimes varied, almost every study concluded that jaw advancing mouthpieces were quite effective at treating snoring. Most studies showed a success rate of between 75% – 85% or greater. I’ve personally tested several mouthguards and had great success with nearly every one of them. In fact, the success that I have experienced inspired me to create this blog to help others solve their snoring problem and possibly their marriage. I gathered all the information available on the most popular mouthguard and created this table to help you decide which product may be the best fit for you. While they may not work for everyone, they have in fact worked for many including personal friends, family, and readers of this blog. What about the other 15% to 25% of individuals who were unsuccessful? While there are a number of different reasons for failure, here are a few possibilities:

An example of a more recently designed jaw advancing mouthpiece. This design allows one to adjust the lower jaw setting forward in 1 mm increments.

• Improper use did not follow instructions
• Source of snoring sound not coming from back of throat
• Nasal obstructions such as polyps
• Device intolerance
• Abnormal airway anatomy
• Abnormal jaw anatomy

Fortunately, most reputable manufacturers offer a money back guarantee which makes trying a mouthguard virtually risk-free. It’s generally a good idea to deal only with manufacturers who stand behind their product with such a money back guarantee. Understanding exactly how these mouthpiece work will help you to determine if a jaw advancing device will work for you.

Exactly how does it work?

On the surface, most of these devices are strikingly similar to an athletic mouthguard or a night guard used for teeth grinding. While these products are similar in appearance, they differ greatly when it comes to function. Athletic mouthguards and night guards simply form a protective barrier to prevent damage to the teeth. A snoring mouthpiece actually holds your lower jaw slightly forward as you sleep. The forward or “advanced” position pulls on the throat and airway muscles. The pulling effect causes the muscles in the airway to tighten. In most cases, loose tissues and a narrow airway are the main sources of the sound of snoring. With the jaw forward, muscles and tissue are tightened, preventing the narrowing of the airway or flapping of tissue.

How do I know if it will work for me?

Here is a simple test that will help you to determine if a snoring mouthguard may be right for you.

1. Tilt your head back slightly and imitate the sound of snoring
2. As you are doing this, use your muscles to push out on your lower jaw. Hold it out as far as possible without overstretching it
3. Continue to imitate the sound of snoring

Did the snoring sound diminish or completely stop? If so, you may be an excellent candidate for a mouthguard. Even if the sounds were greatly reduced yet not completely eliminated, you may still be a great candidate. Anyone who is interested in using an as seen on TV snoring mouthguard should first consult with their doctor if they have any health concerns. While most snoring is not harmful, it can possibly be a sign of a more serious issue such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

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.

An inevitable part of owning a snoring mouthpiece is the need to clean it. Considering that the human mouth contains on average between 800-1000 different strains of bacteria, it’s very easy to see why daily cleansing of your device is necessary. The inside of the mouth is dark, moist, and warm which creates the perfect environment for microbes to grow. If you were to simply store your device after each use without cleaning or even rinsing it off, it would only take 2-3 days before it begins to smell funky.

Now that you have been grossed out, I’m going to go over the care instructions for several popular mouthpieces on the market so that you can keep your mouthguard squeaky clean and smelling fresh.

These types devices come in a number of different designs and can be made from a number of different materials. Because of this, care instructions often vary from one product to another. For instance, some manufacturers suggest that you simply soak their device in mouthwash or a denture cleaning solution while others suggest using warm soapy water or even a toothbrush and toothpaste. Below you will find a list of some of the more popular mouthpieces along with specific care instructions which are approved by the manufacturer.

Good Morning Snore Solution

The Good Morning Snore Solution can be cleaned using one of two methods:

1. Purchase denture cleaning tablets from your local pharmacy. You can buy the generic store brand or name brands such as Efferdent or Polident. These are fairly inexpensive, costing around $6 for a 90 day supply. Fill a container up with cold water and dissolve the cleaning tablet. Place the GMSS into the denture cleaning solution for 10 minutes. Next, give the container a swirl prior to removing the device and rinsing. Allow to air dry on a fresh paper towel.
2. As an alternative, you may use a toothpaste and cold water solution to soak your GMSS in. Fill a container with about a cup of cold water and drop in a toothbrush length squeeze of toothpaste. Allow to dissolve for a few minutes and then mix using a wooden popsicle stick or some other mixing device. Once dissolved, drop your device in for 10 minutes, swirl, rinse, and allow to air dry.

Zquiet

Clean the Zquiet using a mild liquid dish soap such as Dawn, Palmolive, or Ivory. I prefer to use a soap that has anti-bacterial properties. Clean the device using your fingers and the liquid soap. For best results, the manufacturer suggests that you use a toothbrush to assist with cleaning. While a toothbrush is recommended, toothpaste is not because it can discolor or even distort the surface of the Zquiet.

Most importantly, once thoroughly cleaned, you should rinse all soap residue off before allowing it to air dry. While the manufacturer does not mention it, allowing to air dry is an important step prior to storing away for the day. It is recommended to store the mouthpiece in the provided storage case to help retain the shape and spring action of the hinge.

Vitalsleep 

There are two methods that can be used to clean the Vitalsleep:

1. Using warm water, clean the device with a toothbrush and toothpaste. The water should be “warm” to the touch and not hot. Place a dab of toothpaste on the Vitalsleep and clean as you would your teeth. Be sure to brush in all of the crevices as this device contains several places where bacteria can hide. Once finished, rinse the device and allow it to air dry on a paper towel before storing it away in the provided storage case.
2. An easier cleaning solution is to use a denture cleaning tablet which has been dissolved in water. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. In general, the soaking process usually lasts between 5-10 minutes. After soaking, rinse and allow to air dry. Once completely dry, store the Vitalsleep in the case that came with the device.

Snoremender

Clean your Snoremender using a mild dish soap such as Dawn, Palmolive, or Ivory. Antibacterial soaps are the best choice for this particular application. Use warm tap water along with the soap and your fingers to gently clean the surface of this mouthpiece. Keep in mind that you should never use water warmer than 158° as it can distort the overall shape of the device. The water should be warm to the touch but not hot.

Once cleaned, rinse the soap off with warm water. Continue rinsing with warm water, particularly in the hinge area for an additional 30 seconds. Doing so slightly heats the hinges causing them to relax and open out. Allow the device to dry opened up and completely flat. Once air dried, store flat in the protective case that comes with the device. Take special care not to compress the mouthpiece as it relies on the flexible hinges in order to function properly.

SnoreRx

The manufacturer of the SnoreRx suggests cleaning this device just as you would normally clean your teeth – using warm water, a toothbrush, and toothpaste. Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste with a soft bristle toothbrush. Wet the SnoreRx with lukewarm water and brush the device while paying close attention to areas such as the teeth indentions.

Once thoroughly scrubbed with a toothbrush and toothpaste, give the device a good rinse and allow to air dry before storing away.

Zyppah Rx

The Zyppah Rx should be cleaned using a soft toothbrush along with an ounce or so of mouthwash. Dip your toothbrush into a small container of full strength mouthwash and carefully brush the device. Be sure to clean in all hidden areas which may harbor bacteria. Once cleansed, rinse the Zyppah off and allow to air dry before storing away.

In addition to daily cleaning with a toothbrush and mouthwash, the manufacturer suggests that you occasionally clean the device using an effervescent tablet such as Polident or Efferdent. These cleaning tablets are typically dissolved into the water before placing the device into the solution and soaking for 5-10 minutes.

RIPsnore

The manufacturer of the RIPsnore offers one simple suggestion when it comes to cleaning the device – “place it under fresh running water”. I tend to disagree with this cleaning advice. However, this is exactly what the manufacturer suggests. Nonetheless, allow the device to completely dry before storing in the provided container.

AveoTSD

Each day after using the AveoTSD should be rinsed under warm water and turned upside-down to allow to dry. In addition to the daily rinsing, the manufacturer advises that the device is submerged in a denture cleaning solution. Such a solution is created using denture cleaning tablets which can be purchased at your local drug store.

Be advised, you should never clean the AveoTSD in mouthwash as it contains alcohol which will break down the silicone material from which this device is made.

SleepPro

There are two ways in which you are able to clean the SleepPro. This applies to any of the SleepPro products including the Standard, SFA or the Custom.

1. 1. Run the device under warm tap water while using a toothbrush to dislodge any deposits that may have formed on the surface. Keep in mind that toothpaste should not be used during this process as it will scratch the surface, causing it to discolor and potentially harbor bacteria. Once all surface deposits have been scrubbed clean you can then soak the device in mouthwash or a denture cleaning solution. The manufacturer advises that over time the chemicals found in both mouthwash and denture cleaners can cause a breakdown of the material. This is why they suggest using the second method of cleaning which involves a specially formulated product specifically designed for the SleepPro.
   2. Use the SleepPro brand Fresh and Clean tabs. This product is designed to clean your device, leaving a minty fresh taste while not compromising the material from which it’s constructed. Also, these tablets will not discolor your device as harsher store purchased products will. They can be purchased for $8 per pack and each pack contains 20 tablets.

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.

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: