What Snoring Aids Actually Work?
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A lot of snorers and sleep apnea patients have this question. It comes up time and time again. Which of these devices actually works and can it help me to stop snoring. Snoring aids come in all different shapes and varieties and there is really no one-size-fits-all option. In order to determine whether or not a particular remedy will work, first you have to understand what the origin of the problem is. If you are snoring because you are congested then no mouthguard or mouthpiece is going to solve the problem for you.
On the contrary, if you’re nightly snoring is due to Obstructive Sleep Apnea then no spray or nasal strip is going to help you. This is what a lot of companies leave you in the dark about when they are marketing these various snoring solutions to you. Understanding the why, helps you understand the how.
Comparison Chart Of The Different Types Of Snoring Aids
| Example Product | Type Of Device | Useful For Snoring Due To | Not Useful For Snoring Due To |
|---|---|---|---|
 Good Morning Snore Solution | Tongue Retaining Devices (TRT) |
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 Vital Sleep Mouthpiece | Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD) |
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 Snore Zip Spray | Anti-Snoring Sprays |
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 Brookstone Anti Snoring Pillow | Anti-Snore Pillows |
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 Rematee Anti-Snore Bumper Belt | Anti-Snore Shirts/Belts |
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 Stop Snoring Exercise Program | Stop Snoring Exercises, Digeridoos and other "home remedies" |
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 My Snoring Solution Chin Strap | Chin Straps |
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 Breathe Right Nasal Strips | Nasal Strips |
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Oral Appliances Pro And Con
The two primary types of snoring mouthpieces that are generally considered to be most effective fall in to one of these two categories. Tongue retaining devices or mandibular advance devices (MAD). What’s the difference between the two and how do you chose?
Tongue Retaining Devices
Pro:
They don’t require any custom molding or boil in a pot methods. It’s a one size fits all type of product that works no matter the size and shape of your mouth. These products are are made from BPA free FDA cleared soft plastic that doesn’t leave a bad taste in your mouth.
Con:
There isn’t much variety on the market when it comes to this variety of anti-snoring aid. Currently Good Morning Snore Solution is the only tongue retaining device available. It can not be purchased through any big box retailer online or off. It’s only available at the company’s web site.
Mandibular Advancement Devices
Pro:
Can be custom fitted to different mouth sizes for maximum comfort. Starts working immediately and works no matter what position you sleep in. There are many different options to chose from including Zyppah, Vital Sleep, Snore RX, and Pure Sleep. These devices feel a bit more comfortable than TRD’s and are very similar to mouth guards worn by sports players.
Con:
In rare cases can cause discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (lower jaw). This discomfort usually fades over time however individuals who have had a history of jaw surgery should ask there doctor before purchasing a snoring mouthpiece.
Other Snoring Aids Pro And Con
The following is a comparison of belts, shirts, pillows, exercise programs and sprays often used to improve sleep quality.
Shirts & Belts
Pro:
Works immediately and doesn’t cause any lower jaw discomfort. Can be made at home simply by attached a tennis ball to a t-shirt so it’s a cheap and easy solution.
Con:
Forces you to sleep on your side which may be uncomfortable for some people. It also fails to address snoring caused by more severe cases where merely re-posturing the body isn’t enough to remove any obstructions in the airway.
Snoring Chin Straps
Pro:
Adjustable and doesn’t require frequent cleaning
Con:
Numerous complaints of poorly made chin straps that are completely ineffective. Avoid these sort of products at all cost. Many users reported little to no reduction in snoring.
Nasal Sprays & Nasal Strips
Pro:
Useful for allergies, or those individuals with sinus problems. Highly portable and available in many different stores.
Con:
Completely ineffective for snoring due to Obstructive Sleep Apnea
What Other Options Do I Have To Stop Snoring?
Mandibular advancement devices, and related products can help individuals with OSA, but they are not intended to be a long term cure or treatment. If your doctor suspects that you have OSA you will be asked to participate in a sleep study.
If the results of your sleep study indicate the presence of apnea episodes throughout the night you will likely be prescribed a CPAP machine. Alternatively, if none of these options proves to be sufficient there are a number of surgeries intended to reduce snoring. These surgical procedures are typically only used in severe cases or if CPAP is an untenable option.
If you have not been diagnosed with sleep apnea, and you’re just looking for a stop snoring aid to help you get a better night’s rest. We recommend Mandibular Advancement Devices above all over products as they have been shown to be the most effective for a countless snorers.
