☆☆☆☆☆ 3 Star Rating

What is Mute?

Mute nasal device is a pair of nasal cones or dilators that are positioned just inside the nostrils and opens the nasal passage to promote easy nose breathing.  This enables users to breath more freely through the nose instead of the mouth, reducing vibrations from occurring in the back of the mouth which produce the sound of snoring.  The nasal dilators are made from a soft medical grade plastic and can be used up to 7 times per pair.  Mute is an effective snoring solution that is easy to use and affordable.

Mute by Rhinomed

The Parent company that owns Mute is a Melbourne, Australia based company called Rhinomed.  Rhinomed has over 60 medical technology patents that target breathing.  They have developed the Mute technology as well as a sister brand called the Turbine, which is another nasal dilator made for high-intensity exercises like cycling.  Rhinomed has been publicly traded on the Australian Stock Exchange since 2008.  Rhinomed is currently researching and designing an Intranasal Positive Expiratory Airway Pressure device that will act as a treatment for sleep apnea.

The science behind Mute

Mute targets snoring by promoting airflow through the nose.  Snoring can occur in nose breathers and mouth breathers.  A nose breather is typically defined as one who breathes through the nose while the mouth is closed.  A mouth breather is one who can breath through the nose but may be experiencing congestion due to illness or sinuses, thus opening their mouth at night in order to breathe.  Mute can be used by both nose breathers and mouth breathers.  The Mute dilators will be more effective for mouth breathers because there is apparently an airflow issue with their nose if they breathe through their mouth most of the time.  The user could have a deviated septum or nasal congestion for example, and the Mute dilators can help direct air through the nose and cut down on breathing through the mouth which can cause very disruptive snoring.  Often times when you breathe through your mouth, the throat muscles relax and your airway becomes blocked.  When the airway is blocked, a vibration occurs in the throat tissues and the sound of snoring begins.  Mute is a great anti-snoring option for those affected by a deviated septum.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea & Central Sleep Apnea

It’s important to remember that this product is not intended to be used for the treatment of Sleep Apnea.  Obstructive Sleep Apnea, or OSA, is a serious condition where one’s breathing patterns while sleeping are interrupted repeatedly and you actually stop breathing.  During these interruptions, the brain is not receiving oxygen, let alone the rest of your body.  There are two types of sleep apnea – both of which are separate sleep disorders.

The difference between obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea is that obstructive sleep apnea occurs from a direct airway blockage.  When the soft palette tissues in the back of the throat collapse during the night, this leads to the blockage of airflow and one stops breathing.  Central sleep apnea has the same impact of not breathing, however, instead of a physical blockage in the airway, a failed signal from the brain prohibits the body from breathing instead.  This typically means that the respiratory system is not functioning properly.

Scientific Studies

Mute claims that 75% of partners noticed a decrease in the amount of snoring and the volume of snoring while using Mute.  Couples from the same study also claimed that Mute was more effective at treating snoring than various other products on the market.

Another study, done outside of Mute research, was conducted by students from the University of California at Irvine.  Students compared several different nasal dilators and concluded that dilators open up the internal nasal valve.  This valve can be easily obstructed for various reasons including congestion, a deviated septum, or various sinus issues.

Where to buy it?

Mute is available for purchase at several retailers including Walgreens, Walmart, Jet.com and on their website.  You may find that the product itself may not be in a physical store but rather stocked for online orders only.

How Much does Mute Sleep Cost?

The Mute retails for $27.95USD + $5.95 shipping.  This price is for the 3-Pack of size-specific refills.  There is also a trial pack available for $19.95USD + shipping that offers one of each size Mute so that you can test out the sizes and order the refill pack in the size that fits the best.  If you shop around online, you may be able to find a more affordable price than what Mute offers on their website.  Standard US shipping through USPS is available for any size product for $5.95 and should arrive within 3-5 days domestically.  International shipping charges and longer delivery times will be incurred for any order outside of the US.

Warranty

Rhinomed has a 60-day return policy on any product that is faulty, defective, or damaged upon arrival.  Since the product is being placed in the nostril, there are no refunds or returns on opened products.  This should be understood by all, as the product is being placed in the body.

Mute is available in Small, Medium, and Large Sizes and they do not offer exchanges if the size you receive does not fit.  This is most likely why they offer the trial pack – which includes 1 of each size so you can determine which size to order next time.

My Personal Review of Mute Sleep

The Mute Sleep Packaging

My Mute arrived neatly packaged in a paper sliding tray with an instruction booklet neatly tucked in the packaging.  The packaging looked slightly different from what I saw online though.  The package was more vertical, whereas the packaging I received was more horizontal.  I ordered size small since my nose is rather petite.

Follow these instructions to adjust your Mute:

1.  Wash your hands before opening the packaging.
2.  Open one of the sealed compartments and remove only 1 of the dilators.
3.  Hold the bridge with the curved arms facing towards you and insert the paddles into both nostrils.  Slowly insert the curved arms first and then wiggle the bridge a little bit in order to fit the paddles into your nose.  You will need to move the bridge towards the tip of your nose, or possibly lower on your nose to achieve a comfortable fit.
4. The paddles can be adjusted in case you need them to be larger or smaller.  Take the Mute out of your nose and gently push or pull each paddle out in order to activate the adjustable ratchet.  Then repeat steps 2-3.

You should rinse the product after each use and store it in a cool dry area.  Mute recommends using the dilator for up to 7 times per pair and rinsing it off before each use as well.

My experience with Mute Sleep

I’ve been using anti-snoring devices for several years now and like all new products I try, I typically use the device for 2 weeks at night in order to accurately compare products.

The first night

The first night I used Mute, I noticed that the nose dilators fit into my bedtime routine just fine.  I had Mute sitting next to my bed on my nightstand and after finishing reading for the evening, I simply slid the nose dilator into each nostril.  I adjusted it a bit to make sure it was securely in place.  It did feel a bit awkward at first by having something in my nose, however, you can immediately feel Mute pushing on either side of the nostril and really opening up the nasal passage.

The next morning when I woke up, I felt well rested and assumed that my snoring was stopped.  I asked my wife if she had heard me the night before and she said no.  I guess it did the trick!

The first week

After 7 days of use, I noticed initially that my nose was a bit sore in the morning from the dilator.  Towards the end of the week, the soreness wore off and my nose seemed to have been ‘broken in’ after several nights of use.

The second week

After nearly 2 weeks of repetitive use each night, I can gladly say that Mute is indeed effective.  I did have Mute fall out of my nostrils a few times that week –

I noticed it was not in place when I woke up in the middle of the night.  I think the key to having a good experience with this product is to make sure you are buying the correct size.  Since Mute is available in three sizes- small, medium, and large, it’s important that you know which size will fit the best.  If Mute is too small, it will not properly open up the nasal passage and may actually obstruct airflow through your nose.  If Mute is too large, it may be really uncomfortable and can cause soreness in your nose from stretching it out too much.

Mute offers a trial pack that is available in 3 sizes.  My personal opinion is to order the trial pack first and try all sizes out.  Then when you need to reorder, you can order the perfect size.  Remember, that Mute does not allow you to return the product if it’s open, so you really want to be sure you are ordering the correct size, as they will not accept any returns unless of course it’s defective or arrives damaged.

How it compares to other Anti-Snoring Devices

There are so many anti-snoring options out on the market, and most of them do actually work, so it’s hard to compare Mute vs. other stop snoring products.  One problem I do see with Mute is that one package has 3 pairs of dilators and each should be used for about 7 days.  So realistically, one box has just under a one month supply.  $34 a month

adds up pretty quickly over the course of a year – putting you over $400 for nose dilators.  For that price, my personal preference would be to invest a quarter or half of that

in a custom fitted snoring mouthpiece.  This can last for up to one year or more before replacing.  Some of my favorite mouthpieces can be found and compared here.

Not everyone will be comfortable with molding and fitting a mouthpiece, but that is the route I would go.  Also, if you find yourself to be more of a mouth snorer, Mute may not be as effective as a snoring mouthpiece would.

In the end, you need to make the best decision for yourself in order to stop your snoring.  Make sure you weigh all of the benefits of nose dilators like Mute versus other products like tongue stabilizing devices.  Whichever product you end up choosing, I wish you a snore-free night’s sleep.

The Link Between Snoring and Erectile Dysfunction

Hey guys, today I’m going to talk about a topic that most men avoid and that’s erectile dysfunction, and more specifically snoring, as it relates to erectile dysfunction (ED). If you have noticed that snoring is keeping your wife up while your external organ remains down, you might want to listen up as I have some important information that will have you back between the sheets.

Let’s cut to the chase and answer the question: Does snoring cause erectile dysfunction? Snoring itself is a primary symptom of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and according to several recent studies such as the one conducted at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York,  there is a strong correlation between OSA and ED. The Mount Sinai study determined that men who had ED were twice as likely to have OSA. It was then suggested that those with ED should be screened for OSA, as sleep apnea may be the cause of their ED. Several other studies suggest that 40%-75% of men with sleep apnea also suffer from ED. One study conducted in 2009 concluded that 70% of male subjects who were suspected of having sleep apnea were also experiencing issues with erectile dysfunction. There’s certainly no shortage of research linking ED to OSA.

In western medicine, physicians often prescribe medications such as Cialis, Viagra or Levitra to treat ED without examining the possible link to OSA. While such drugs treat the symptom, they don’t necessarily address the cause of the problem. In addition, prescription drugs often come with side effects which are not always immediately apparent. Before asking your doctor for a script, you may want to dig a little deeper and search for the root cause. There are a number of other conditions that could cause ED, so it’s important to have a discussion with your doctor to explore the possibilities.

Why Does Snoring & Sleep Apnea Cause ED?

Snoring is often associated with sleep apnea, a condition in which the airway becomes restricted during sleep and the person experiences momentary pauses in breathing. Such pauses in breathing can wreak havoc on your body and cardiovascular system causing high blood pressure, heart disease, daytime tiredness, type 2 diabetes, and several other potentially dangerous health conditions.

Scientists are not exactly sure why men with OSA are at a higher risk of developing ED although there are a few theories as to why this is the case.

It’s well known that sleep apnea puts a strain on your cardiovascular system as well as other parts of the body. Considering that a substantial amount of blood is required to achieve an erection, it makes perfect sense why a poorly functioning cardiovascular system will cause erectile dysfunction. In addition, blood oxygen levels play an important role in achieving a healthy erection. With OSA, blood oxygen levels tend to drop since you are not breathing during multiple apnea events.

Another theory is that male testosterone is produced during sleep. Those with OSA never achieve restful sleep as their body constantly awakens them throughout the night to catch their breath. This awakening happens several times per hour without the person ever recalling waking up. The result is the person will wake up tired and experience daytime sleepiness despite the how many hours of sleep they got the night before. The issue with daytime tiredness can further compound libido as men will be more fatigued and irritable and may not be interested in sexual activity.

How Can I Treat Erectile Dysfunction Caused by OSA?

If you snore loudly, often gasp for air at night or constantly wake up tired in the morning, you may want to consider asking your doctor if sleep apnea is a possibility. OSA is a very common problem, especially in the United States. It affects an estimated 22 million people. Unfortunately, the majority of cases are not diagnosed. Your doctor may ask you to visit a sleep clinic where a sleep technician will perform a polysomnography, also known as a sleep study, which will determine whether or not OSA is present. If OSA is detected, there are several treatment options that your doctor may suggest which should get you back to a restful night of sleep.

• CPAP Machine Therapy
• Weight Loss
• Oral Appliance
• Surgical Procedures

CPAP Therapy

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or CPAP therapy has been the gold standard treatment option for Obstructive Sleep Apnea for many years now. The patient wears a face mask at night which is attached to a CPAP machine. The machine delivers a constant flow of air throughout the night which keeps an obstructed airway open. This method of treatment is highly effective and is prescribed by most physicians today.

Weight Loss 

Perhaps the most common cause of OSA is obesity. In September 2013, The American College of Physicians issued new guidelines for the treatment of OSA which recommended weight loss as well as CPAP use. Because most cases of OSA are caused by excessive body fat, especially around the neck area, losing weight may eliminate sleep apnea as well as cure erectile dysfunction. A loss of as little as 10% of your body weight can greatly reduce or eliminate symptoms of OSA.

Oral Appliances

Oral Appliances such as the MAD or TSD are highly effective in treating mild to moderate sleep apnea. They are designed to fit inside of the mouth and hold the jaw in the forward position which helps to keep the airway open and allows air to flow freely. Oral appliances are professionally fitted by a physician, although appliances that are referred to as snoring mouthpieces can be purchased directly online and fitted at home.  If you decided to use an oral appliance from the internet, be sure to follow the directions and use it only as intended.

Surgical Procedures

Surgical Procedures to treat OSA are typically only used as a last resort in the treatment of sleep apnea. Tonsillectomy, Somnoplasty, Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty and the Pillar Procedure are a few of the more common procedures. Surgery should only be considered if all other options have been exhausted.

The Takeaway

While snoring itself doesn’t typically cause erectile dysfunction, it’s often a symptom OSA which has been proven to cause ED. If after visiting your doctor, he or she determines that your snoring is in fact sleep apnea, consider speaking with them about the possibility of a link between the two. Remember, in many cases, treating OSA will restore your ability to achieve an erection. There are several methods that can be used to treat OSA so your options are not limited. By getting to the root of the problem and treating OSA, you can avoid potentially harmful prescription drugs while restoring your ability to get an erection. Plus, treating OSA will prevent a number of other potentially fatal health problems.

☆☆☆☆☆ 3.75 Star Rating

AirSnore Combo Pack sells for $89.95

The AirSnore is a relatively new product that was introduced in early 2016. The parent company who sells this product is based out of the UK while they also have a US location in New York City. Wolfson Berg Limited produces the AirSnore and it’s sold through their website Bauer Nutrition as well as a stand-alone website.

The AirSnore line consists of two products – A mouthpiece and essential oil drops. They also sell a combination pack which contains one of each product. Interestingly enough, this combination is the only of its kind currently available.

Because the mouthpiece and drops work independently, it’s easiest to discuss each product individually and then examine how they can be used together. As with all other products that I have reviewed on this site, I will put each product to the test and share the results. Let’s begin by taking a look at the AirSnore Mouthpiece.

AirSnore Mouthpieces – What is it & How Does It Work?

The AirSnore mouthpiece can be purchased by itself for $49.95

The AirSnore Mouthpiece is a snoring mouthpiece, more formally known as a Mandibular Advancement Device or MAD. Like all other MAD’s, it’s placed inside of the mouth prior to going to sleep. The upper and lower teeth sink into the mouthpiece which ultimately positions the lower teeth slightly in front of the upper. In doing so, the jaw is also positioned slightly forward. This forward action helps to tighten the muscles in the airway which prevents snoring.

Why do you need to move the jaw forward and tighten the airway to prevent snoring? Simply stated, as we age our airway becomes less toned and is subject to movement as air passes through while we sleep. Air rushes through the airway while asleep causing loose tissues to vibrate which creates the sound that we all identify with snoring.

This product is a one-piece mouthpiece that is constructed from molded thermoplastic. This material becomes soft and pliable when momentarily heated in water. When you first use the AirSnore, you will need to warm it up in water in order to create an impression of your teeth. Once the initial fitting process has been completed, it will not need to be repeated for each use. When fitting the AirSnore, its crucial to properly fit the mouthpiece so that the jaw is in the forward position and teeth are embedded in the plastic material. Failure to do so will result in poor performance and or discomfort.

One unique feature of the AirSnore are the two breather holes that are located at the front of the mouthpiece. These holes are a necessity for those who are open mouth breathers while asleep. Not all snoring mouthpieces offer this feature.

Is AirSnore FDA Cleared?

Technically speaking, AirSnore is considered a medical device. Because of this, one consideration may be whether or not the device itself is cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In the US, the FDA is responsible for ensuring the safety of their citizens.

While the term “FDA Cleared” does not appear on their website, the bottom of their sales page suggests that the AirSnore is manufactured in an “FDA Approved Facility”. Unfortunately, the FDA does not “approve” any manufacturing facilities. US manufacturers are required to register their production facility with the FDA and they are subject to facility inspections. However, the FDA never gives a seal of “approval” to any manufacturing facility or product.

Furthermore, snoring mouthpieces are considered class II medical devices by the FDA. This means that they must first be “FDA Cleared” and sold by prescription. A quick search of the FDA medical device database did not reveal that the product is registered. It’s, however, possible that the AirSnore is registered with the FDA under a different brand name.

What’s in the AirSnore Drops?

In addition to the mouthpiece, AirSnore also offers drops which are essentially a blend of essential oils. The claim is that this exotic blend of essential oils are beneficial to those with a cough or cold and will help you sleep better.

Each bottle contains 50 ml (1.76 fl oz) of liquid. The ingredients listed are Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, Eucalyptus globulus (eucalyptus) leaf oil, Lavender Angustifolia (Lavender) flower oil, Mentha piperita (peppermint) leaf oil, and Pinus sylvestris (Scots pine) leaf oil. Why did the manufacturer choose this particular blend of essential oils? What effects does each oil have?

Eucalyptus oil – Used to assist with breathing when congested. Eucalyptus oil helps to loosen mucus and allows more oxygen to enter your lungs as it dilates the blood vessels. Not only is it a decongestant, it also helps to clean the body of harmful toxins.

Lavender Oil – Has a numerous health benefits which include improving quality of sleep as well as reduce anxiety and stress. Lavender oil is a relaxing oil as it assists in helping you fall asleep. Like Eucalyptus oil, it also helps relieve sinus congestion.

Peppermint Oil –  Helps to soothe sore muscles and relax the body. It’s also a natural painkiller and helps to clear the airway for those who are congested.

Scots Pine Oil – Another decongestant and reliever of sore throats. Pine oil also helps to loosen phlegm and mucus which allows for a productive cough.

Sunflower Oil – This oil was chosen as a delivery system for the four oils mentioned. Sunflower oil is vitamin E rich and is easily absorbed.

Together, this blend helps to relieve congestion, allow for better breathing, and relaxation.

How Much Does it Cost?

The cost of the AirSnore will vary depending on which product(s) you choose.

If you were to purchase the mouthpiece by itself, this will set you back $49.95. The drops, when purchased alone, cost $59.95. If you are interested in both products, they can be purchased as a combo pack for $89.95, a savings of $19.95. One benefit of choosing any of their products is that the company offers free shipping.

Money Back Guarantee

Before taking a chance and dropping $50-$90 on another snoring solution, you are probably wondering “What if this doesn’t work for me?”. This is a common concern and one that is often addressed by most sellers in the industry with a money back guarantee. Most manufacturers who sell snoring mouthpieces offer some sort of guarantee and AirSnore is not an exception.

According to their website, the AirSnore comes with a 60-day money back guarantee which is twice the average of 30 days offered by most manufacturers. Truth be told, if a mandibular advancement device is right for you, you will know after the first night so while an extended guarantee is certainly a benefit, it’s not necessarily a huge selling point.

I searched the internet for any complaints related to the company honoring this guarantee and was unable to locate any.

My Product Review of the AirSnore Mouthpiece and Essential Oil Drops

At first glance, I wasn’t clear on what exactly this product was. I’ve reviewed over two dozen snoring mouthpieces in the past, but never encountered one that is offered with “drops”. The drops were somewhat of a mystery and my initial thoughts were that you place the drops on the mouthpiece before inserting into your mouth, which by the way you should not do. After reading up, I realized that the drops were simply an essential oil blend which is applied externally to the skin.  As you may be aware, essential oils have been very popular in the past four years and are used to treat a number of ailments. Knowing this, I’m open to the idea of giving essential oils a try.

The AirSnore mouthpiece appeared very similar to other snoring mouthpieces that I have tried in the past. Since I’m familiar with how these device work, I decided to start by testing out the mouthpiece. Here is the method that I used to fit my AirSnore mouthpiece.

Directions that I used to fit the mouthpiece

• Boil a small pot of water and set aside.
• Fill a small bowl with cold water.
• Ensure that hole retainer plug is inserted.
• Using a pair of tongs, fully submerge the mouthpiece into the boiling hot water.
• Wait 30 seconds and then remove.
• Once removed, wait a few seconds and touch the mouthpiece to ensure that it’s not too hot to place inside of your mouth.
• Place the AirSnore into your mouth and bite down firmly while thrusting your jaw forward slightly.
• Hold this position and allow it to cool inside of the mouth for a minute or so.
• Remove and immediately submerge in cold water.
• Remove the AirSnore from the cold water.
• Remove the retainer plug and insert into the mouth.
• A properly fitted mouthpiece will retain the jaw in the forward position when placed in the mouth while biting down.
• If a proper fit is not achieved, remove and repeat the fitting process. This can only be fitted a few times before the material becomes compromised.

I found the process of fitting the AirSnore pretty simple as it took less than 5 minutes and I didn’t experience any issues. It was time to put this mouthpiece to the test.

First Three Nights

I’ve been using similar snoring mouthpieces for a number of years now, so I’m fairly well versed in how MAD’s work. That being said, before going to bed, I placed that AirSnore into my mouth, read a book, and slowly drifted to sleep. If you are not accustomed to using one of these devices, you may find it to be somewhat cumbersome and awkward at first. You may even experience some drooling during the first few days. Once you become accustomed to wearing a snoring mouthpiece, you will notice that wearing one every night will be much easier.

I often rely on my wife to determine whether or not a product works. Unfortunately, she was out of town for the first three nights of this experiment, so I had to rely on a smartphone app to record any noise that was made as I slept. During the first three nights, no snoring was detected, indicating that the AirSnore was indeed effective.

The Next Four Nights

During the next four nights, my wife was present, which meant I no longer had to rely on the app to let me know if I was snoring. This is the ultimate test as she is my bed partner and is the one who has to put up with my snoring problem.

During the next four nights, in addition to using the mouthpiece, I rubbed the essential oils on my chest, under my nose, and on my neck. The scent was rather soothing, sort of like Vicks Vapor Rub but even more pleasant. Although I didn’t have any chest or nasal congestion during this time period, I could certainly feel the powerful effects of the essential oils as the aroma made its way through my nasal passages into my lungs. I typically have no issues falling asleep, so I was unable to tell if the drops had any measurable effect on helping me to fall asleep. For those who have issues falling asleep, I can see how these essential oils would be beneficial. Also, because sedatives such as sleeping pills cause the throat and airway to relax and compound the issue of snoring, using these drops can be a great alternative to relying on such pills that are not only harmful to your body but can also compound the snoring effect.

The results over the next four nights – the AirSnore continued to work and there were no complaints from my wife about my snoring.

Thoughts and Recommendation

While I found that the essential oils may be better suited for someone with congestion issues or one who needs help falling asleep, the AirSnore mouthpiece was certainly effective against snoring.

One notable feature of the mouthpiece that appealed to me was the dual air holes that are located towards the front of this mouthpiece. These air holes are large enough to be useful and are essential if you are a mouth breather. The overall design is functional and should work for those with an average sized mouth.

As for the price tag of the mouthpiece, $50 with free shipping is not bad at all when compared to the price of other snoring mouthpieces which range from $40 on up to $100 or more. If the essential oil drops are something that you could potentially benefit from, it may be worth purchasing the combo pack for an additional $40. The essential oils used in the AirSnore drops are proven to be effective against congestion and help to relax the body. It’s important to note that the essential oils alone are not going to prevent your snoring. These are only used to assist with falling asleep.

The AirSnore is offered with a 60-day full money back guarantee which makes trying this product virtually risk-free. Because of this, I certainly recommend giving either one of these products a try.

Pros:

• Effectively stops snoring
• Designed with two breather holes
• Affordably priced
• Those with sleeping issues may benefit from drop use
• 60-day money back guarantee

Cons:

• Unknown FDA clearance

☆☆☆☆☆ 3.5 Star Rating

General Information About SnoreMedic

Snore Medic retails for $39.99 + $3.95 shipping

The Snore Medic, not to be confused with SnoreMeds which is a similar product that I’ve reviewed in the past, is sold by the company Cures For Snores LLC., which is based out of Provo, Utah. The company was founded in 2014, although the Snore Medic website wasn’t registered until January 2016.

The Snore Medic is similar to other snoring mouthpieces that I have reviewed in the past. It’s a colorless, translucent, thermoplastic boil and bite style mandibular advancement device that features two holes at the front which allows air to pass freely. These holes can be viewed as one large breather hole that is separated by a small pillar in the middle. The Snore Medic comes with a retainer plug which should be inserted into the hole during the molding process and discarded afterward.

In addition to the mouthpiece itself, the SnoreMedic also comes with a clamshell style plastic storage case that tightly snaps together with vent holes which is great for storage and transportation of the device. The package includes a small 8-page booklet which contains information such as the instructions for use, fitting instructions and procedure, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and cleaning instructions. All items are packaged inside of a square box for retail display. Overall, I was fairly impressed with the presentation of this product. In the past, I have come across some mouthpieces that were sold with no packaging, instructions, or storage case.

Before discussing my experience with the Snore Medic, I’m going to go over some additional information that I found on this product.

The Snore Medic Claim 

Snore Medic states that during sleep, the muscles of the upper airway relax, restricting airflow and causing the vibration that we know as snoring.  The claim is that Snore Medic comfortably supports the jaw, keeping the airway open which eliminates noisy vibrations.

This statement and claim concerning MAD’s are indeed true. Mandibular Advancement Devices such as the Snore Medic have been studied extensively over the past 30 years as a treatment for snoring and or sleep apnea. In this recently published study, it was found that 72% of patients achieved a satisfactory outcome when treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) with a MAD. OSA and snoring are closely related as they both are a result of restricted airflow caused by relaxed upper airway muscles.

There are nearly 100 such products on the market, many are available only by prescription. Despite the design or brand, every available mouthpiece performs the same function which is to hold the jaw forward and tighten the airway thereby eliminating snoring or in some cases OSA.

The reality is that while all mouthpieces are the same mechanically, some have more features, fit better, and are more comfortable than others.

30 Day Money Back Guarantee

If you are not familiar with snoring mouthguards, you may be a bit skeptical and wonder whether or not such a product will be a good fit for your snoring.

Most reputable sellers will offer some sort of guarantee to encourage those who are on the fence about purchasing their product.  According to their website, Snore Medic comes with a 30-day money back guarantee. Their refund policy states that you will need to obtain a return authorization RA in order to qualify for a refund. This must be obtained within 30 days of delivery, not necessarily 30 days from purchase.  There is a simple return authorization request form on the website which makes this process simple. Unfortunately, shipping costs are non-refundable and you are responsible for the cost of return shipping, which should cost less than $5 when using the standard mail service offered by USPS.

Total Cost of the Snore Medic – How Does it Compare?

Cost is a consideration for most people. The sales page on the Snore Medic website doesn’t show exactly how much their mouth guard costs. In order to determine this, you must first add their product to your shopping cart and then check out.

As of the time of this writing, the price for one device is $39.99 USD. Shipping is an additional $3.95 for standard shipping and $7.95 USD for expedited shipping. Total cost delivered to your doorstep is $43.94 USD if you choose standard shipping. Transit times for standard shipping is 4-7 business days while expedited shipping typically takes 2-3 business days. The Snore Medic is currently available to US residents only.

The Snore Medic is priced lower than average in comparison to similar MAD’s.

Average Lifespan

All anti-snoring devices have a limited useful life as plastics begin to break down and they lose their effectiveness. According to the manufacturer’s website, this product should last for eight to fifteen months. Similar products have an average lifespan of 12-24 months, meaning that the Snore Medic falls somewhere in the average range. The amount of time that it lasts greatly depends on your sleeping habits and how well you care for your mouthpiece. If you tend to grind your teeth while asleep, you will likely have to replace your mouthpiece within a year or less.

The company does offer a subscription-based service where you will receive a new device every eight months at a discounted rate. They mention signing up for such a program, although I was unable to find an area on their site where you are able to do so.

Is the Snore Medic Cleared by the FDA?

In the United States, the FDA regulates the sale of anti-snoring devices such as the Snore Medic. Before being sold, such products must first be cleared by the FDA. Most manufacturers are able to meet this requirement by claiming that their product is “substantially equivalent” to another product that is currently on the market. The process of obtaining clearance is often lengthy and costly. For these reasons, many sellers choose not to do so.

When reviewing a product, I always check the FDA clearance status. The Snore Medic website does not suggest that their product has been cleared by the FDA nor could I find any record when searching the premarket notification database on the FDA website.

Is it BPA and Latex Free?

It’s also a good idea to know whether or not a mouth guard is BPA or Latex free. This is especially important if you have a latex allergy. BPA’s, on the other hand, are still widely used, although some like to avoid them when possible due to controversial health problems associated with the synthetic compound.

After combing through their website, I was unable to locate any information indicating whether or not the SnoreMedic contains BPA or latex. If you have a latex allergy or have concerns about BPA, it may be a good idea to contact the seller and ask these questions prior to placing an order.

Reviews Found Elsewhere Online 

When examining a product, I always like to browse the seller’s site as well as the internet to find what others are saying.

The Snore Medic website does offer about a dozen reviews touting their customer service and success with their product. All reviews were five star, except for one which was rated at four stars. Naturally, I always take reviews posted on a sales page with a grain of salt, so I tend to search for reviews left on 3rd party websites such as Amazon. My search turned up empty-handed as there was no listing for this product on Amazon or elsewhere and only one other product review which did not go into great detail. The lack of reviews is likely due to the fact that the Snore Medic is a relatively new product that was recently introduced.

My Experience Testing Out the Snore Medic

After placing my order, the Snore Medic quickly arrived and I was ready to get started. All expected items were neatly contained within a small box. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, which made the fitting quite simple. The process was very easy and involved heating the mouthpiece in hot water for several seconds prior to removing and placing into the mouth. When inside the mouth, you must bite down firmly to get a good impression while keeping the jaw in a slightly forward position. Once the mouthpiece has had a chance to set up for a few seconds, remove and place into cold water to allow it to set before removing the air hole plug.

I had created a custom impression of my teeth in just a few minutes and the Snore Medic was ready to roll.

The experience of using the Snore Medic was just like any other MAD that I have tried in the past. You simply place it inside of your mouth prior to going to bed. Upon awakening, clean and store the mouthpiece.

I found the fit of the Snore Medic to be okay. It wasn’t the thinnest mouthpiece that I have used, neither was it the thickest. Because of the size, it was noticeable yet still tolerable. The thermoplastic material that’s used offers a decent fit. While inserted, it held my jaw forward as it’s intended to do.

So, did it work? Did it stop my snoring? The answer is YES! It worked as advertised although I did drool a bit during the first couple days of use. This is a side effect that is common with all MAD’s so it’s nothing that should alarm you.

I found the Snore Medic to be an inexpensive, no frills mouthpiece that effectively stopped my snoring. It features 2 decent size air holes which are great for mouth breathing.  For just over $40, it’s a fairly good value for a basic mouthpiece. There are however other mouthguards that are available that cost a few dollars more but are more compact and offer better features such as a tighter fit and the ability to make an adjustment. Overall, this is a product that I would recommend for those on a budget, as it’s a good introduction to snoring mouth guards.

Pros VS Cons

To conclude this review, I’m going to summarize my findings with a short list of pros and cons that I found while testing out the Snore Medic.

Pros:

• Good starter mouth guard for those who have never tried one
• Affordably priced at $39.99 with reasonable shipping charges
• Effectively stops snoring
• Large breather holes allow for night time breathing through the mouth
• Comes with a 30-day money back guarantee
• Includes handy storage and carrying case

Cons:

• Unknown FDA status
• Unknown use of BPA or Latex

If you and your spouse or partner sleep in different bedrooms, you are not alone.  Over 20 percent of married couples alone sleep in separate rooms, and many for multiple reasons including opposite work schedules, having children with sleeping problems, underlying marital issues, and the most popular and burdensome being snoring.

History of Sleeping in Separate Bedrooms

This may not be the first time married couples have slept apart throughout history.  Married couples sleeping in separate bedrooms actually dates back to the 1800’s when one was considered royal to have their own sleeping quarters.  English royals including land owners, kings, and queens conducted numerous business deals, and made great economic decisions in the comfort of one’s own bedroom.  Bedrooms in the 1800’s and 1900’s were more public spaces than the privates areas we are familiar with today.  Most affluent men and women played different roles in the household, therefore having separate rooms for their belongings.  Men had several staff and servants to dress him in the morning, provide breakfast to him in the bed room, and then invite businessman into his quarters for meetings.

The same went for women – their staff would dress and feed them, and close friends or staff met in the bedroom to arrange the day’s social calendar and agenda.

Many important life events took place in the bedroom throughout history like birth, sickness, and death – another reason why couples had separate bedrooms.  It’s no fun sharing a bed soaked with birthing fluids, or sleeping next to someone with dysentery.  As economies progressed and modernized, and the introduction of household plumbing became mainstream, separate sleeping quarters for men and women became less common and separate dressing rooms or closets were gradually introduced.  Now, modern-day sleeping arrangements suggest that spouses or partners share the same room and bed.  Or is that really how it seems?

Modern Day Causes of Couples Sleeping in Different Beds

It’s probably safe to say that the reason you are sleeping away from your partner is not due to being an affluent King and Queen.  The reason for your separate sleeping quarters are probably listed in one of the following causes, and I’m willing to bet that most are due to snoring.

Marital Problems

One cause of couples sleeping separately is the underlying issue of marital problems and domestic disputes.  With nearly 50% of marriages ending in divorces these days, the reality of sleeping in separate bedrooms may not be a good sign.  Some spouses with children under the age of 18 may choose to continue on with their marriage until their kids are grown and may simply sleep in separate rooms and blame the other for snoring as a cover-up.  Really, they are just masking their underlying marital issues from their kids.

Work Schedules

Other couples prefer not to wake up their partner due to opposite work schedules and late nights coming home.  Many American homes have at least 1 parent working multiple jobs and shifts to make ends meet, even if it means coming home to another bedroom away from your spouse so you don’t disturb their sleeping.  Corporate jet-setters may choose to sleep in another room so they don’t wake their spouse in the early morning hours when they have to get ready to catch a 5am flight.  Others may completely work on opposite schedules and may just be going to bed when their spouse hears the alarm go off in the morning.

Children

Although a bad habit to start at a young age, some first time mothers allow their children to sleep with them early on and continue to let them sleep in their bed as the years pass.  This may force the husband or spouse out of the bedroom and into the child’s bed.  If the child gets into this habit, it’s hard to break the child out of it as well as the spouse that initiated the co-sleeping from the beginning.  This is often seen in families with an only child and can put a lot of tension on a marriage.

Snoring

The most common reason married couples sleep in different beds is due to the fact that one partner snores.  Snoring impacts 25% of people in the U.S. on a regular basis and over 50% on an occasional basis.  Snoring can cause a partner to leave the bedroom indefinitely or until a viable solution has been found.

We’ve always Slept in the Same Bed – Why are We Sleeping in Different Rooms Now?

Most couples, married or not, may ask themselves, “When did we actually start sleeping in different rooms?”.  And yes, it may be years for some people.  Like most Americans who meet at a young age or in college, they are active, healthy and fit in their younger years.  They most likely have not developed a snoring problem like older people who carry excess weight, drink regularly, and may have sleep apnea.  Is age actually the culprit?

Weight Gain

One reason you may notice the need to sleep in the room next to your snoring partner is that they may have gained a few pounds over the years.  Weight gain, especially fat formed around the neck and face, can be a direct correlation to snoring.  Fatty tissue can build up around the throat and down the neck and will block the airway at night when your tongue relaxes.  This blockage causes the tissues in your mouth to vibrate as air passes by, which results in the loud and annoying sound of snoring.  Many couples notice that they have gained weight throughout the years, and if you find yourself sleeping in a different bedroom than your spouse, as well as having a few extra pounds on you, then weight gain may just be the root of your snoring problem.

Sleep Apnea

Another reason why you may not have snored early on in your relationship but do now, is that you may have obstructive sleep apnea.  The older you get, the more you are at risk of having a stroke, diabetes, asthma issues, heart attacks, or high blood pressure.  All of these medical conditions that you may not have had when you first started sleeping next to your partner, but you do now, can correlate with sleep apnea.  Sleep apnea usually has symptoms of loud snoring followed by a period of non-snoring, when you actually stop breathing, and then start snoring again.  This occurs because your airway is actually being blocked.  It is a serious condition to be on the look out for.  If you think your partner has sleep apnea, you should consult a doctor so that a sleep study can be administered.

Drinking

When you and your partner started sleeping in the same bed together, chances are you did not consume alcohol on a regular basis in your early years.  As you get older and have to deal with more decision making and stress, one tends to drink more.  Drinking has a direct impact on snoring and may also be the reason why you and your partner sleep in separate bedrooms.  When you drink, the muscles in your body tend to relax.  When your throat muscles relax and your tongue relaxes, it rests towards the back of your throat, thus causing your throat muscles to relax and vibrate as air passes down the airway.  Excessive drinking can lead to excessive snoring and your spouse leaving the room for an attractive quiet night’s sleep in the room across the hallway or on the couch.

Snoring Solutions – How to Get Back in the Same Bed

Yes, sleeping in separate rooms can be troublesome in a relationship, but the truth is that it doesn’t need to be like that forever.  If the real reason why you sleep away from each other is indeed snoring, there are hundreds of products available that are effective in treating your snoring and getting you back to sharing a bed.

Over the Counter Snoring Products

Nasal Strips

One solution to treat snoring is the use of nasal strips.  These adhere to your face right below your nostrils and above your lips.  They control the airflow in and out of your nostrils in order to increase airflow in through the nose and out of the mouth, thus reducing snoring.

Snoring Chin Straps

Snoring chin straps can be purchased by nose breathers in order to promote breathing through the nose and not the mouth.  The chin straps holds the mouth closed so that you can not snore through your mouth.

Stop Snoring Pillow

There are several styles of anti-snoring pillows on the market that can curb snoring.  Some promote side- sleeping so that your throat muscles do not relax and obstruct the flow of air at night.  Other pillows gently raise the elevation of your head so that your air passageway remains open through the entire night, thus cutting back on snoring.

Earplugs

Another product that does not solve the problem of snoring, but will get you back in the bedroom are earplugs.  Surprisingly enough, earplugs are typically the first step in trying to prevent your spouse from leaving the bedroom.  In most cases, earplugs are effective in the short term.  Long-term stop-snoring solutions should be researched though.

Surgeries to Stop Snoring

Somnoplasty

A somnoplasty is an outpatient procedure where a needle is placed under the surface of your throat tissues and low power energy is applied and creates lesions.  The lesions prevent the throat tissues from vibrating as air flows by, preventing snoring.

Pillar Procedure

The Pillar Procedure is a surgery where small polyester rods are placed beneath the surface of the soft palate tissues.  Similar to a somnoplasty, the tissues then harden and stop any vibration that would usually occur during snoring.

Prescription Based Products

Snoring Mouthpieces

One of the most effective anti-snoring products that are widely used among Americans is the snoring mouthpiece.  There are several manufacturers of snoring

mouthpieces that target snoring and stop snoring completely.  Snoring mouthpieces do require a prescription, however in most cases, you simply fill out a form before purchasing, and if the questions are answered in a certain way, a prescription will automatically be ordered for the product and you can move forward with the purchase.

Mouthpieces are available in several styles and can actually be custom molded to fit your mouth.  In some cases, you can do this at home, and others you can take a simple mold and send it off to be custom fitted.  Prices and styles vary, but they are more affordable than invasive surgeries and guarantee to bring your partner

back in the room for a good night’s rest.  You can compare some of the best mouthpieces in the market here that I have personally used throughout the years.

Which Snoring solution is the best?

There are many snoring solutions out there that will help you and your partner to get a good night’s sleep, and in the same bed.  Do some reading and choose the best stop snoring solution for you.  It’s always good to consult with your doctor especially if you or a loved one shows signs of sleep apnea.  None of the above solutions treat sleep apnea, as it needs to be diagnosed by a sleep study and monitored by a doctor.

How Carrying Extra Weight Contributes to Snoring

Carrying extra fat increases your risk of snoring or OSA

Snoring is an issue that affects over 90 million Americans. Of the 90 million that snore, about a quarter have mild to moderate sleep apnea. These numbers are similar in most other developed countries.

What’s the cause of this epidemic? Why are so many of us snoring? Why is snoring and sleep apnea so prevalent in developed countries such as the US and UK? Perhaps the abundance of calorie dense, fortified junk food is to blame.

Sixty-six percent of Americans are considered obese or overweight.  As we are all aware, obesity can cause a number of ailments which includes snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). The reason being is because excessive fat around the neck tends to apply pressure around the airway which can partly restrict the movement of air. When the airway is obstructed, snoring, and in some cases, OSA will occur.

Those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of over 25 are considered either overweight or obese and are at higher risk of developing a snoring condition or OSA. Also, men with a neck circumference that is greater than 17″ or women with a neck circumference of greater than 15″ are at higher risk. For every unit increase of BMI, you are 14% more likely to develop one of these two conditions. In other words, losing as little as 7 lbs can reduce your chances of developing either condition by 14%.  If you were to lose 14 lbs or a reduction of two units, you are 28% less likely to snore.

Keep in mind that snoring and OSA are not always caused by being overweight, although this is the most common reason. Other factors such as enlarged tonsils or adenoids as well as physical obstructions in the airway can also be causes or contributing factors. If you were once of average weight and have gained weight and notice an increase in snoring or daytime tiredness, it’s quite possible that being overweight can be the cause. If you have any concerns, you should first speak with your doctor.

Losing Weight May Prevent Snoring

The American College of Physicians recently released new guidelines for the management of OSA which focuses on weight loss in conjunction with treatments such as CPAP and oral appliances. The recommendations also apply to those who snore but do not have OSA. These guidelines are quite practical as it’s well known that extra weight, particularly in the neck area, can cause snoring issues and OSA. It goes without saying that reducing the amount of fat around the airway can ultimately eliminate snoring.

When it comes to losing weight, there’s a lot of great information available online so there’s no need to go into detail. Here’s a short list of items that will put you on the right track to losing weight.

• Exercise
• Eat a balanced diet
• Reduce carbohydrates such as bread
• Reduce calorie intake
• Eat smaller portions
• Drink lots of water
• Avoid unhealthy snacks
• Eat more fiber

A plan by itself is not going to cause you to lose weight. You will need to remain committed throughout your weight loss journey and beyond. Unfortunately, it’s quite common for people to lose a substantial amount of weight and then quickly regain it over the course of just a few months. The most common reason is that they regress back to old eating habits and stop exercising which will cause the weight to reappear.

How to Stop Snoring in the Meantime

Use a Snoring Mouthguard

This is your typical Mandibular Advancement Device, also known as a snoring mouthpiece

It can take several months to lose just a few pounds. If you are dealing with a snoring problem, you are probably interested in solving this issue now rather than several months from now. While weight loss should be considered the ultimate goal, there’s actually a small device that can be used to help prevent snoring in the meantime. Generically, it’s called a snoring mouthpiece. More specifically, it’s called a mandibular advancement device. They are highly effective, easy to use, and typically cost less than $100. Here’s a chart which lists all of the products that are available along with a product review of each.

If you decide to try a snoring mouthpiece, be sure to choose a reputable seller for safety reasons. Look for mouthpieces that are FDA cleared, BPA free and made from a medical grade material. Snoring mouthpieces can be used for weight loss. Eventually, the goal should be to completely eliminate snoring without having to use any such device.

Try Sleeping on your Side

Also consider sleeping on your side, which helps to keep the airway open and reduce snoring. By sleeping on your side, gravity helps to shift fat around the neck to the side and prevent it from pressing against the airway.

Remaining on your side throughout the night can be fairly difficult if you have a tendency to sleep on your back or stomach. One way of preventing rollover is to purchase a pillow which uses a stopper to prevent you from rolling over on your back. Since these pillows can be fairly expensive, a less expensive alternative is to wear a tee shirt to bed and fasten a tennis ball to the back using a rubber band. As you roll over in your sleep, the ball will cause discomfort and help to keep you on your side.

Skip the Nightcap 

Alcohol is a sedative that contributes to snoring and should be avoided.

Did you know that drinking alcohol prior to bed can further agitate snoring? As we sleep, the muscles in our airway relax and the airway becomes restricted. Because alcohol is a sedative, your muscles can become extremely relaxed and compound the problem of snoring. If your partner notices an increase in the intensity of your snoring after you consume alcohol, you may want to consider skipping the nightcap.

Without insurance or limited insurance with high copays, the cost of a new CPAP machine can be so prohibitive that some people will buy used ones. However, the problem with this solution is navigating through all the different websites and trying to find a CPAP which is safe and works right. There are companies which offer discounts on CPAP models which are older and not used, but there can be problems with this because parts and supplies may no longer be manufactured for the machines. If this important life-saving machine has limited, or no value, in either case, there is no deal at all.

If a person who is looking for a used CPAP, they will need to know what to look for when buying one. To do this, the buyer will need to know if the place offering CPAP machines is reliable. Also, the person will have to know the cost of used versus new machines, so the buyer can gauge the value of the machine that they’re interested in. Also, it’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of buying a used CPAP.

What to look for when shopping for a used CPAP?

There are several reasons why a person would shop around for a used CPAP. If a person is renting a CPAP machine from a medical supply company, there are usually out of pocket expenses involved. These lesser charges from renting can add up over time. Therefore, a used CPAP can be an alternative. Additionally, having a used machine as a backup CPAP is something people feel comfortable having in case something happens to the main CPAP. This can be a wise decision if a person suffers from serious sleep apnea.

Some of the things that you need to know when shopping for a used CPAP

Bacteria breeding grounds

The mask isn’t the only part which is dirty from another person’s usage. The whole CPAP machine has air going through it so that the machine will have picked up bacteria and viruses. This is why a used machine should only be bought from a reliable company. These companies will have tested and cleaned the machines thoroughly before reselling them.

Filters

Any used machine which is purchased should come with new bacterial/viral filters. These filters are for both the intake port and the outtake port. The intake filter is what filters the air which comes into the machine. The second filter is to back up the first filter so that if something has gotten past the first filter, the second filter will catch it on the way out of the machine and remove it. So, if these old filters are used and still in place, then the person who’s purchasing the machine will be breathing in the last owner’s germs which can be a serious health risk.

The Best Place to Find Used CPAP Machines

Trusted Websites

The best places to buy reliable CPAP machines are from online warehouses and stores. These places usually buy machines in bulk so that the savings can be passed onto the buyer. The online store used should have a guarantee with the machine and a checklist of what they inspected on the machine. Also, importantly as an option, some companies that sell new CPAP machines will offer a discount on a new CPAP machine if the person purchasing it trades in the old one.  In addition, Home Healthcare stores usually carry CPAP machines as well as other stores within insurance carrier networks. These stores will carry used CPAP machines that meet the sterilization qualifications.

Don’t Buy from Craigslist or use a Family Members’

A few places where a CPAP shouldn’t be purchased are on Craigslist, eBay and Amazon. Don’t buy one at a garage sale either. These machines have no guarantee that they have been properly cleaned or sterilized. Additionally, if the machine isn’t properly sterilized, then there is a possibility of the machine being contaminated with viral or bacterial respiratory infections. These infections could include: pneumonia, bronchitis or tuberculosis. Also, if the person who originally owned the machine had an infestation of cockroaches or bedbugs in the home, those pests could have contaminated the equipment.

Borrowing a friend or relative’s CPAP machine isn’t a good idea either- as appealing as it may be. It may have only been used a few times and the person is healthy and a relative. This is the wrong kind of thinking for many reasons. Borrowing a machine, whether a relative or not, can be taking a chance of contracting the risk of infection. Also, the therapy is set up for that person, not the person borrowing it. This could be detrimental to the health of the borrower.

Using CPAP equipment which is sterilized and up to date and prescribed only for the person on the prescription is the safest way to go.

Cost savings of used vs new

When a person buys a new CPAP machine, the initial cost is more than just the machine. The purchase also includes the humidifier, face or nasal masks, heater hoses, and filters. With all of this, a new CPAP machine and setup usually costs between $1,500 and $3,500 without insurance.

In addition, the cost of a CPAP depends upon what the model and make of the machine is, as well as its features. A machine purchased through insurance outright and through an in-network DME provider could also offer discounts which would lower the cost.With insurance, the CPAP tubing, masks, and other accessories may be covered too.

Pricing for used CPAP machines may range from $291 to $700 depending on who is selling them. Most of these, at this price, don’t come with guarantees or warranties. Reputable companies, however, will sell used CPAP machines with a guarantee and still at a price lower than a new one. They will always ask for a prescription.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of buying a used CPAP?

There are advantages and disadvantages to buying a used CPAP machine. Listed below are some of each:

Advantages

If a person needs to buy a machine and doesn’t have insurance, then buying a used CPAP machine is less expensive. If the person is a traveler, then buying a used CPAP machine for traveling would make sense. Since it could be stolen or lost by an airline, while away from home, it makes perfect sense for a person who travels frequently to have two. Also, when buying a used CPAP online, there may be a larger variety of choices, prices, and options for specific needs that insurance won’t cover. In addition, customer reviews can be handy when deciding on what type to buy and what another person thought of the products bought from a company.

Disadvantages

There are also disadvantages to buying a used machine online. If the person has bought the machine from a company which is not reputable, unsanitary products may be shipped. The product may not have been tested and may not work properly. Another problem is that if the machine is an older model, there may not be replacement parts available it if breaks down. Replacement filters, which are very important to the usage of the machine, may no longer be made or available for purchase.

In addition, the original warranty may be voided and there may not be a guarantee of functionality. It’s possible that the CPAP could run fine when it’s purchased and then break down a week later. Additionally, if the person doesn’t have a prescription for the machine, then the pressure settings can’t be adjusted by a professional.

Reusable and disposable CPAP filters

There are two kinds of filters which can be used in a CPAP machine. One is reusable and one is disposable:

Reusable filters

These filters are made out of foam and can be reused. They need to be washed at least once a week as well as checked for wear and tear. Warm soapy water can be used, and they need to be rinsed well to remove all soap traces. Lay it flat to dry it, and then replace it back into the CPAP machine when it is dry. These filters are excellent for removing dirt, pet hair and pollen from the air in the room. They will require more maintenance than disposable filters.

Disposable filters

These filters are made from a material which is paper-like. It’s electrostatically charged which allows them to attract floating particles out of the air to keep them out of the CPAP machine. They need to be replaced when they become discolored or every 30 days. If the environment is a dusty one, they may need to be changed more often.

Deciding on whether to buy a used or a new CPAP is a personal and monetary choice. Also, if lack of money is a problem, then American Sleep Apnea Association’s CPCP Assistance Program may be of able to help with the cost. Be sure to research your used purchase ahead of time and even consult with a doctor on how to go about purchasing a used CPAP machine.

This post contains an affiliate link.

☆☆☆☆☆ 4.75 Star Rating

ZenGuard by Zensleep is a newer Tongue Stabilizing Device

Today, there are more choices than ever when it comes to buying a snoring mouthpiece. In fact, there are currently well over thirty mouthpieces to choose from. The recent introduction of the ZenGuard by ZenSleep has made the decision of choosing a mouthguard even more complex, as it has added to the growing list of anti-snoring mouthpieces that are available.

Perhaps the best way to narrow down the number of choices is to first decide between a Tongue Stabilizing Device (TSD), also known as a Tongue Retaining Device (TRD) and Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD). One device works by holding the jaw forward to open the airway while the other holds the tongue forward, having the same effect.

When deciding between the two, the primary consideration should be your ability to breathe freely from your nose. Those with unobstructed nasal passages may choose either a TSD or MAD. If nasal breathing is not an option, a MAD may be a better choice because they are typically designed with an air hole which permits mouth breathing. Those with chronic sinus issues should only consider a MAD with a breather hole.

So which one works better – The MAD or TSD? The answer to this question is that they are both effective and for those who are able to use either, it mostly comes down to the features that each offer.

Over the past 4 years, I’ve tested nearly every mouthpiece available and have written about my experience with each. To help make the decision easier for my readers, I have created a table summarizing the mouthpieces that I have reviewed as well as my recommendation based on factors such as comfort, ease of use, cost, and credibility.

What Do We Know about the ZenSleep, the Company Behind ZenGuard?

In the evolution of TSD’s first, there was the aveoTSD then along came the Good Morning Snore Solution followed by the Pacifier and now we have the ZenGuard by ZenSleep.

When reviewing a product, I always begin by examining the company who produces and sells the product. ZenSleep’s Facebook page does state that the company was founded in December of 2014. The company lists a contact phone number of  (800) 278-0150 as well as hello@zensleep.com as the email address.

I was unable to find much information regarding the identity and credentials of the creator of ZenSleep.

About the ZenGuard

The ZenGuard is one of several products offered by ZenSleep. The company also sells the ZenVents (Nose vents), ZenStrap (Chinstrap), ZenMask (Facemask), and ZenPlugs (EarPlugs). In addition, they offer an “all-in-one” kit which contains one of each mentioned item.

This device is considered a TSD because it attaches to the tip of the tongue and holds the tongue forward to prevent snoring.

Exactly How Does it Work?

When mentioning a TSD such as the ZenGuard, usually the first question that comes to mind is “How does it work?”

There is nothing revolutionary about the design of the ZenGuard. Similar TSD’s have been in existence for well over a decade now. TSD’s have been studied for years and according to this study recently published in the Journal of Dental Sleep Medicine,  TSD’s are just as effective when it comes to treating mild Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) as MAD’s are. OSA and snoring are often closely related as many who snore also have OSA.

In order to better understand exactly how the ZenGuard works, it’s important to first know exactly why we snore.

What Causes Snoring?

In most cases, the sound of snoring originates from within the airway. As we age, our airway becomes less toned and loose. This issue is often more pronounced in people who are overweight as excessive neck fat can apply pressure against the airway. While asleep, the tongue falls into the back of the throat, the jaw relaxes and falls back causing the muscles surrounding the airway to relax and loosen up. Now imagine what the inside of an airway that is loose and relaxed may look like? It becomes narrow and often times partially collapsed. As air rushes past a collapsed loose airway, loose tissues vibrate and collide with each other. The colliding tissue creates the familiar sound of snoring.

How The ZenGuard Prevents Snoring

A relaxed airway can collapse and may obstruct breathing. The ZenGuard holds the tongue muscle forward to help clear the airway and prevent snoring.

Take a quick look at the anatomy of the human airway. It’s easy to see that the muscles surrounding the jaw and tongue connect to form a point in the Oropharynx area. This is the area that becomes narrow and is the site where the sound of snoring typically originates. Now, imagine if you were to pull and hold the tongue and the associated muscles around the airway forward. Doing so will tighten the tissue, open the airway and allow air to flow unobstructed. Unobstructed breathing = no snoring. TSD’s, such as the ZenGuard perform this task which in turn prevents snoring.

MAD’s, the TSD’s sister device, also performs the same task of pulling and holding this muscle group. These devices actually fit entirely inside of the mouth between the upper and lower teeth.

Description of the ZenGuard

The ZenGuard is a soft, silicone-like bulb device that you squeeze and place onto the end of your tongue.  At the front end, “wings” protruding from both the upper and lower sides. These wings rest on the outside of the upper and lower lips and prevent the tongue and device from falling back into the mouth. Without this feature, this TSD would be useless as it would not hold the tongue forward and tighten the airway.

The opposing end of the bulb is open and is the entry point in which the tongue is inserted. There is a “V” notch cut into the bottom of the device to accommodate for the Frenulum which is the piece of skin between the bottom of the tongue and the floor of the mouth. When inserting the ZenGuard onto the tongue, it’s important to face this notch down.

The ZenGuard closely resembles another product that I have reviewed called the aveoTSD. It was developed by a New Zealand orthodontist and sleep medicine expert, Dr. Chris Robertson. The aveoTSD is, however, a prescription-only device that is available through your dentist or physician.

What Type of Material is It Made From and Is It BPA Free?

One important consideration to examine is the type of material a mouthpiece is made from. It’s important to understand what type of material you are putting into your mouth each night. Reputable manufacturers will construct their mouthguards from medical grade silicone, typically USP Class IV.

In addition to knowing the type of material, you should also know whether or not the device contains BPA, a synthetic compound that has been used in a variety of products from water bottles to can linings. While BPA’s are still being widely used today, the use of BPA’s remains controversial.

The following is posted on the product detail page on the companies website:

“Comfortable and easy to wear, this BPA free, soft medical grade silicone guard…”

How Much Does ZenGuard Cost?

When deciding which snoring mouthpiece to choose, an important consideration for many is the price. The ZenGuard sells for $97.00 USD with free US Shipping.

It appears as if they only sell the ZenGuard in the United States.

Is ZenGuard FDA Cleared?

TSD’s and MAD’s that are used for snoring are considered class II medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and technically speaking, require a prescription. Prior to bringing a product to market, the manufacturer must first file the appropriate paperwork with the FDA.  The FDA must “clear” a product prior to being authorized for sale.

On the FDA website, you can search their database to see if a product is registered with the FDA. A quick search did not reveal any results for the terms ZenSleep or ZenGuard, although this does not necessarily mean that it’s not cleared as it could have been cleared using a different name.

Money Back Guarantee?

ZenSleep does offer a money back guarantee as stated on their homepage:

“If you are not completely satisfied, simply return your purchase within 90-days for a full refund. We believe in our devices and offer 100% guaranteed results.”

However, if you read their return policy it states:

“All returns are subject to a 25% environmental waste disposal fee”

My Experience Testing out the ZenGuard

When the ZenGuard arrived, it appeared exactly as pictured on the website. The material seemed durable yet soft and flexible. Overall, I found the Zenguard to be a well made, quality mouthpiece.

As with all other mouthpieces that I have tested, I tried the ZenGuard for a total of two weeks and documented the results each morning.

I’ll start by mentioning that if this is your first time using a TSD, you will likely notice that your tongue will be slightly sore in the morning and you may even drool while asleep. This is completely normal and should go away with time. I’ve been using both a TSD and MAD for several years now, so I no longer experience such issues when using an oral appliance.

During the testing period, I found the ZenGuard to be effective against my loudest snoring. It did, in fact, stop my snoring as advertised, but this comes as no surprise as I have found TSD’s to be effective in the past.

How Did The ZenGuard Compare to Other TSD’s?

How does the Zenguard Compare to other TSD’s? Over the years, I’ve tested three other TSD’s – aveoTSD, the Pacifier, and Good Morning Snore Solution. As for a comparison of these products to the ZenGuard, my observations are as follows:

ZenGuard vs. aveoTSD

The aveoTSD is a tongue stabilizing device that has been around for over a decade now. In fact, it’s believed that the aveoTSD was the first TSD to be brought to market. The aveoTSD is also a product that I have tested and had experienced satisfactory results. The ZenGuard is very similar to the aveoTSD but unlike the aveoTSD, ZenGuard can be purchased without visiting a physician. The Zenguard can be purchased directly from the ZenSleep website without a prescription.

Aside from one being prescription based while the other isn’t, there are a still a few difference between the two. The aveoTSD was developed by a physician and has numerous scientific studies that cite this device. The Zenguard doesn’t appear to be developed by a physician and there’s no mention of it in any studies or publications. The ZenGuard does, however, sell for a fraction of the cost of the aveoTSD. (Aveo sells for $200+) Comparing the two side-by-side, it’s nearly impossible to tell the difference.

Read my full review of the aveoTSD here

ZenGuard vs. The Pacifier 

The Pacifier TSD was released in August 2015. While it’s priced significantly lower than any other mouthpiece, I found the design of the Pacifier to be inferior in comparison to the other available TSD’s. With the Pacifier, the flange is too small and flat. The lack of curvature made it difficult to keep in place throughout the night.

In comparison, I found the ZenGuard flange to be better designed which helps to keep it in place. The long body of the ZenGuard and the wings prevented it from falling out while asleep.

Read my full review of the Pacifier here

ZenGuard vs. Good Morning Snore Solution GMSS

The Good Morning Snore Solution is another TSD which I discovered several years ago. Since then, it has become one of two snoring mouthpieces that I use on a nightly basis ( SleepTight being the other). When my sinuses are clear, I typically go with the GMSS, otherwise, I choose the SleepTight due to the fact that it has an air hole which allows for mouth breathing.

When comparing the ZenGuard to the GMSS, I found both to be effective at eliminating my snoring. They are both TSD’s and both perform the same task, although the design differs slightly from each other.

Read my full review of the GMSS here

Product Recommendation

After testing a product, I always offer my recommendation based on what I find.

The ZenGuard passed the functionality test as it works as advertised. If you are interested in a TSD that is similar in style to the aveoTSD, the ZenGuard may be a good choice.

If you have decided on a TSD and are trying to choose one, the ZenGuard is a product that lives up to its claims and is worth checking out.

While Zenguard gets the job done, I’m still partial to the Good Morning Snore Solution which is competitively priced, made from a material that is thinner and offers a lower profile in comparison to the Zenguard. Check out the GMSS website and compare the two.

Visit GMSS

Pros:

• Made from quality material
• Works as advertised
• Competitively priced at $97.00
• Offered with free shipping
• BPA-free soft medical grade silicone
• Money back guarantee (Less 25% “disposal” fee)

Cons:

• No information on the company or credentials

The Debate Between the Prescribed SomnoDent and Non-Prescription Mouthpieces

The SomnoDent is a popular oral appliance that typically costs around $2,500

Oral appliances or dental appliances have been in existence for over 80 years now, although they have not been widely used to treat snoring and sleep apnea until the 1980’s when they were brought to light after several studies concluded that they were effective at treating both snoring and sleep apnea. Since then, dentists worldwide have been creating custom-fitted mouthpieces for their patients as an alternative to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) treatment. In comparison to the CPAP, oral appliances are more discrete, less cumbersome, and require no electricity to operate. Unlike a CPAP machine, the oral appliance can easily slide into ones pocket which makes transporting simple. 

You may be more familiar with the term “Snoring Mouthpiece” which has been commonly used in television and internet advertising to describe this product while physicians refer to such devices as oral appliances. This term has become so popular over the past 20 years that the average consumer is 3 times more likely to recognize it by this slang term rather than it’s proper name.  No matter what you call it, the oral appliances have become a popular choice when it comes to the treatment of snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea and for many is often a suitable alternative to the CPAP which has been considered the gold standard for ages.

There are several options available for the treatment of Snoring and or Sleep Apnea, so why should you choose to go with an oral appliance? While the CPAP machine is very effective, it must travel with you every day, most likely for the remainder of your life. While CPAP machines have become more compact and quieter in recent years, there are still hoses and masks along with the unit which make it difficult to transport and require a source of power. Some models are noisy and some find that they dry out the airway. CPAP machines will also require periodic cleaning and service.

The oral appliances are a very effective treatment option that has years of scientific evidence proving their effectiveness treating snoring and sleep apnea. The fitting only takes a few minutes, although you may have to return to your dentist a few times to fine-tune your appliance.

With two different types available, both prescription and online ordered, there seems to be some confusion when it comes to differentiating the two.

Here are 5 reasons why you may choose a prescribed mouthpiece to treat your snoring or sleep apnea problem.

Why Choose a Professionally Fitted Mouthpiece Such As The SomnoDent?

Prescribed Devices Fit Better and Are More Comfortable

Everyone’s mouth structure is different. Some people’s mouths are wide, some are narrow. The surface of each and every tooth is unique.  Some have missing teeth while others have dental work such as crowns or bridges or even dentures. In other words, no two mouths are identical. When fitting an oral appliance, it’s very important that the device remains closed against the surface of each tooth, not only to increase the likelihood of the device being effective but also to provide the highest level of comfort possible.  A properly fitted oral appliance such as the SomnoDent is very thin, yet durable and is more likely to be tolerated than one that has not been fitted properly . A poorly fitted mouthpiece will cause discomfort and is likely to be discontinued by the patient after only a few nights of use.

Your dentist can help to evaluate your risk for sleep apnea or simple snoring, choose a mouthpiece that is best suited for your needs, and then customize it for a perfect fit.

Professionally Fitted Oral Appliances Are Adjustable

While having a professional create a custom mouthpiece that fits the contour of your mouth is important, having the ability to adjust your mouthpiece is also something to consider. Why does an oral appliance need to be adjusted?

To answer this question,  it’s important to first understand that oral appliances work by holding the jaw forward which in turn, opens a restricted airway. A restricted airway causes OSA and is the area in which snoring typically originates from. An oral appliance positions the jaw forward while you sleep and prevents the airway from collapsing. For this reason, oral appliances are often referred to as a “Mandibular (Jaw) Advancement Device” or MAD.

In order to prevent snoring or to treat OSA, the lower tray must be adjusted so that the jaw is held forward slightly. The degree to which the tray is set forward is somewhat determined by trial and error. If the jaw is not advanced enough, the appliance will be ineffective and you will continue to snore or have apnea events. Too much advancement may cause discomfort and put excessive force on the teeth.  A professional can listen to your feedback and make adjustments to increase or decrease the advancement of your device and make other adjustments to allow it to fit more comfortably and work effectively.

Better Materials & Better Construction Will Last Longer

The Pro-fitted mouthpiece is usually made from quality materials such as EVA.

Professionally fitted appliances will last for several years when properly cared for. Depending upon several factors such as whether or not you grind your teeth at night (Bruxism) and how you handle your appliance, you can expect for it to last up to five years or more. It’s important to note that there are several other factors which will determine how long a mouthpiece will last.

The type of material that the mouthpiece is constructed from also makes a difference when it comes to longevity.  Materials that are commonly used in oral appliances include Hard Acrylics, Thermal Acrylics, Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate, Laminates, Biocompatible Polymer and Cobalt-Chromium Alloys. Each material has its own unique advantages and disadvantages which should be considered when making a selection.

Most professionally fitted appliances are well engineered and made from quality materials and are built within a lab using strict quality controls. By choosing the right appliance for your individual needs, you can count on several years of use before having to consider a replacement.

Your Insurance May Cover Some of the Cost

Quality mouthpieces fitted by an industry professional can be quite expensive for most people. If you have good insurance coverage, you can save a significant amount of money on your mouthpiece. Most insurance companies, both private and government, provide some type of coverage to cover some of the cost of a Mandibular Advancement Device. Depending on your insurance provider, you may still have to pay up to $1k or more out of pocket.

Nearly all insurance companies will cover expenses that are medically necessary such as when a patient has Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Oral appliances used exclusively for simple snoring, or benign snoring are typically not covered by insurance companies. However, keep in mind that the presence of snoring and OSA are often closely related.

If you snore but have not been screened for OSA, it’s quite possible that an underlying sleep-related breathing disorder such as sleep apnea is present. In a recent analysis released by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), it’s estimated that 29.4 million men and women have OSA, and many cases are currently undiagnosed. This represents 12% of the overall population in the US. The analysis estimates the economic burden to be approximately $149.6 billion annually. This figure includes the cost of motor vehicle accidents, workplace accidents, lost productivity, and Comorbid diseases.

If you suspect that your snoring may be related to sleep apnea, you should contact your dentist for an evaluation. They can determine your likelihood of having OSA using a questionnaires such as the STOP-BANG or the Berlin questionnaire. If presence of sleep apnea is found, you may then qualify for an oral appliance which will likely be covered by your insurance. This will not only treat the sound of snoring but will also treat OSA which is a serious medical condition that causes several health issues and may even be fatal.

Professional Oversight

Perhaps one of the greatest advantages of choosing a prescribed oral device is that a medical professional is overseeing everything from the fitting to adjustments and any maintenance that arises along the way.

After all, oral appliances are medical devices and your dentist can ensure that it’s being used properly. Improperly fitted and adjusted oral devices can cause tooth misalignment and shifting over time. Being professionally managed, any such problems can be detected and prevented before they cause any serious issues.

Your doctor can make any necessary adjustments after the initial fitting to ensure that your appliance is functioning properly and is as comfortable as possible. In some instances, repairs or additional adjustments may be necessary. Those with sleep apnea will need a physician to ensure that the appliance is effective at keeping the airway clear of obstruction.

When it comes to ensuring your safety, you want to choose a professional who has years of experience and specializes in treating snoring and sleep apnea.

Why Choose A Non-Prescription Mouthpiece Over a Prescribed one?

It’s pretty clear that professionally fitted prescription mouthpieces are an excellent choice, so why would you even consider going with a non-prescription type?

Tremendous Cost Savings For Those Without Health Insurance

There are currently over 320 million people residing in the United States and even with the recent health care reform act, 30 million Americans still do not have health insurance. That means that 10% of the population or 1 in 10 people do not carry insurance. The number of people without dental coverage is even higher. Some estimate that over 25% of the population carries no dental insurance.

The cost of a product such as the SomnoDent will vary from one dentist to another. However, without insurance, you should budget for over $2,500. This includes the cost of the actual device, the initial fitting, and any follow up visits to make adjustments. This is a very steep price to pay if you are simply looking for a solution to a snoring problem.

A decent over the counter, the non-prescription device can be purchased for around $80 and when used as directed, can be just as effective at treating snoring as pro-fitted products such as the SomnoDent. These products have come a long way since they were originally introduced in the mid 1990’s. While no product is going to fit as well as a professionally fitted oral appliance, some of the better ones (usually more expensive) come in a close second.

Even With Insurance, Providers Don’t Cover Mouthpiece For “Snoring” Alone

One of the biggest challenges that you will face when asking your insurance to pay for your professionally fitted mouthpiece such as the SomnoDent is whether or not it’s a medical necessity.

If your dentist determines that your snoring is actually a symptom of Obstructive Sleep Apnea then most insurance providers will cover some of the cost. If your snoring is not an indication of an underlying issue and you just want a mouthpiece because you are disturbing your bed partner,  it is very unlikely that your insurance will cover this cost. Many people assume that their insurance will cover them regardless, however, this simply not true.

Insurance Often Only Covers Half (or Less) of The Cost Of  A Pro-Fitted Device

Assuming that your insurance is willing to chip in and help pay the cost of your SomnoDent, you may be surprised to find out that only a portion of the cost is covered, often leaving you with a bill of well over $1,000. The cost of the SomnoDent is typically around $2,500 and many insurance providers are only willing to pay half the cost or in some cases even less.

You Can Try It Before You Buy It

If you are considering a mouthpiece to treat your snoring but do not want to pay the full cost of pro-fitted mouthpiece without knowing if it will work for you, an OTC type product may be a great place to start.

Essentially, both products work in the exact same manner by holding your jaw forward to clear the airway. Consider trying the less expensive OTC product first and then invest in a pro fitted product once you confirm that it’s effective and fits comfortably. The last thing that you want to do is drop $2,500 on a mouthpiece, only to find out that it’s not even effective in your case.

Here’s a bonus – many companies who sell these non-script type mouthpieces will allow you to test them out during a 30-day trial for as little as $10. If you find that it doesn’t work, simply send it back and you are only out $10. You just may find it to be effective and decide to stick with the self-fitted type and save your money.

The Winner Is…

So which one is a better choice? As with most things in life, when it comes to making a decision, it often comes down to money. Mouthpieces that can be purchased online are an affordable choice for those with a snoring problem that is not related to sleep apnea. Some of the newer models such as the “SleepTight” are close fitting and more comfortable than older mouthpieces that were sold 10 or even 20 years ago.

If you have extra money to spend and already know that a mouthpiece will help with your snoring, a pro-fitted product such as the SomnoDent is going to be a great option.

Please keep in mind, if you have any questions or concerns related to snoring or sleep apnea, it’s important to seek assistance from a qualified medical professional who can perform an evaluation and can discuss several treatment options to suite your individual needs and even help you choose which device may be right for you.