Anti-Snoring Devices: Types, Uses and Limitations

Anti-snoring devices work in different ways: some support nasal airflow, some change jaw or tongue position, and others encourage side sleeping. The useful question is which purpose matches your situation, rather than which device claims to be best for everyone.

Nasal devices and positional support

Strips and nasal dilators act at the nose. They may help selected people with nasal narrowing, but they do not address every source of snoring. Positional aids encourage a sleeping position that may reduce snoring for some people. Neither category can establish whether sleep apnea is present.

Oral appliances require a different discussion

A mandibular advancement device holds the lower jaw forward during sleep. A tongue-retaining device supports the tongue in a forward position. Ask a suitable dental professional about the intended use, fit, dental health and follow-up. A sports mouthguard is not equivalent to a sleep appliance.

CPAP belongs in a treatment plan

CPAP delivers pressurised air to help keep the airway open and is used to treat sleep apnea. It should not be ranked alongside comfort products as though all options have the same purpose. If prescribed treatment is difficult, discuss adjustment and support with the treating team.

Choose with symptoms and evidence in mind

Read instructions, warnings and product-specific evidence. Seek assessment for breathing pauses, gasping or marked daytime sleepiness, and for persistent disruptive snoring. A quieter night is a useful observation; it is not proof that a breathing disorder has been treated.

Keep reading

• Snoring Treatment: Discussing Benefits and Trade-Offs

Sources and further reading

• NHS: Snoring
• NHLBI: Sleep apnea treatment
• AADSM: Dental sleep medicine standards and guidelines

Published by TannerMedico A/S, the manufacturer of Asonor. This article provides general information for adults and does not replace individual medical advice.