Best Sleep Apnea Mouthpieces (+Mouth Guards) In 2024

Are you tired of sleepless nights filled with the sound of snoring? If you are, you’re definitely not alone. Snoring isn’t just an inconvenience. It can create significant challenges for both the snorer and their bedmate. snoring might signal a deeper concern – sleep apnea – a condition that deserves your attention.

You may wonder about your treatment options if you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea. A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is one of the most common treatments. But they are bulky and uncomfortable, and many people find them difficult to tolerate.

If you’re looking for a more comfortable and convenient treatment option, you may want to consider a mouthpiece or a mouth guard for sleep apnea.

Mouthpieces work by positioning your jaw forward, opening your airway, and preventing your tongue from blocking it. They come in various styles and sizes, so you can find one that’s comfortable and fits you well.

Sleep apnea mouth guards offer a non-invasive solution to the challenges posed by OSA. They also help with teeth grinding issues as your upper and lower teeth cannot touch one another

Here I will review the 9 best mouthpieces for sleep apnea in 2023. I’ll also discuss the different types of mouthpieces and mouth guards available.

Key Takeaways

• Snoring results from factors like narrow airways, alcohol, obesity, and nasal blockages.
• Snoring types include nose-based, mouth-based, tongue-based, and palate-based.
• Mouthpieces, such as MADs and TRDs, effectively open the airway to reduce snoring.
• Mouthpieces prove effective for many but are not suitable for everyone due to specific health conditions.
• Side effects like jaw discomfort, tooth discomfort, and dry mouth are common but generally mild.
• Snoring mouthpieces, available without a prescription, offer a practical solution for heavy snorers.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea, a prevalent yet often misunderstood sleep disorder, can have a profound impact on one’s overall well-being. This condition is characterized by recurrent interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to fragmented rest and potential health consequences. To navigate the world of sleep apnea and make informed choices, it’s essential to grasp its three primary types:

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common form, OSA, occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat relax excessively, causing an obstruction in the airway.
2. Central Sleep Apnea: Unlike OSA, this type originates in the central nervous system, where the brain fails to transmit proper signals to the muscles responsible for breathing.
3. Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this is a combination of OSA and central sleep apnea.

Accurate diagnosis and measurement of the severity of sleep apnea are crucial. This is often achieved through a polysomnography test, conducted in a sleep clinic, where experts monitor various parameters, including oxygen levels, brain activity, and heart rate.

Understanding the nuances of sleep apnea is the first step towards effective management and improved quality of life. Then, the patient might choose to use a Sleep Apnea mouthpiece or a mouth guard. However, a mouthpiece is usually more safe and effective in this task, so I’ll focus on them in this review.

Symptoms That Cause Sleep Apnea

Moderate sleep apnea stealthily creeps into one’s life. The symptoms, while seemingly disparate, share a common thread of disruption and exhaustion.

Loud Snoring: A telltale sign of obstructive sleep apnea, this cacophonous nocturnal symphony occurs when air struggles to pass through a partially blocked airway.

Frequent Awakening: Sleep apnea sufferers might find themselves abruptly roused from sleep, gasping for breath, a manifestation of their recurrent airway obstructions.

Daytime Sleepiness: The relentless cycle of interrupted sleep robs individuals of the rejuvenation needed to face the day, leading to profound fatigue.

Morning Headaches: Aching morning heads are a frequent occurrence when you have obstructive sleep apnea. They arise because of fluctuating blood oxygen levels.

Difficulty Concentrating: Cognitive function takes a hit as oxygen-deprived brains struggle to maintain focus and clarity. It can happen even due to moderate OSA cases.

Irritability and Mood Changes: The relentless struggle for quality sleep often results in irritability, mood swings, and a diminished quality of life. The more severe OSA you have, the more noticeable these symptoms are.

Understanding these symptoms and their persistence is crucial. If you or a loved one experiences these signs, you must start controlling sleep apnea. Early diagnosis and usage of oral appliances can significantly better sleep quality, alleviating these symptoms.

What is a Mouthguard For Sleep Apnea?

A mouthpiece is a device that is placed in the mouth to help with a variety of tasks. It can be used to play a musical instrument, deliver medication, or improve breathing during sleep.

Mouthpieces come in many different shapes and sizes, depending on their intended purpose. For example, a mouthpiece for a trumpet is much smaller than a mouthpiece for a tuba.

Mouthpieces can also be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and rubber. They works by directing the flow of air or liquid. For example, a mouthpiece for a musical instrument helps the player to create a specific pitch and tone.

You can use it for various purposes such as, musical instruments, breathing apparatus, treating sleep apnea, improving athletic performance, protecting and aligning teeth, and last but not least, delivering medications.

What Is A Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard?

Sleep apnea mouth guards, also known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs), are designed to tackle the persistent issue of airway obstruction during sleep. Their function is rooted in repositioning the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway unobstructed.

These devices are meticulously crafted to provide a comfortable fit. By adjusting the position of the lower jaw, they help prevent the collapse of throat tissues that lead to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) episodes.

This adjustment maintains an open, unrestricted passage for airflow, allowing you to breathe more freely throughout the night. This function also helps against grinding one’s teeth. However, finding the best night guard for teeth-grinding is a different task we won’t cover here.

Although night guards can be effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea, I recommend using a mouthpiece. If you don’t have any teeth or jaw issues, a mouth guard can cause discomfort. A mouthpiece is a safer option.

Is a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guards Safe?

Mouthpieces are generally safe for most people. However, it is important to choose a mouthpiece that is well-fitting and comfortable. A mouthpiece that is too tight or loose can cause discomfort and may not be effective in treating sleep apnea.

Many of the products provided below are FDA-approved snoring devices. This means that they have been evaluated by the FDA and found to be safe and effective for treating snoring and mild to moderate OSA.

Different from mouth guards, mouthpieces are designed specifically for the purpose of keeping your airway open and treating sleep apnea symptoms. That’s why they are safer than mouth guards, which are primarily made to treat TMJ disorders and teeth grinding.

Benefits of Sleep Apnea Mouth Guards

Improved sleep quality: Mouthpieces can help you to get a deeper, more restful sleep. This is because they keep your airway open and prevent you from experiencing apneic episodes.

Reduced daytime sleepiness: When you get a good night’s sleep, you’re less likely to feel tired and groggy during the day. Mouthpieces can help you to improve your energy levels and focus.

Reduced snoring: Mouthpieces can help to reduce or eliminate snoring. This can benefit your sleep partner as well as yourself.

Improved cardiovascular health: Sleep apnea is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Mouthpieces can help to reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.

How to Choose the Best Sleep Apnea Mouthpiece Appliance?

After trying out multiple mouthpieces for sleep apnea, I have created the most important criteria that will help you choose the best sleep apnea mouthpiece according to your budget:

Customization: Some customizable mouthpieces allow you to adjust the fit and comfort. This is important because a well-fitting mouthpiece is more likely to be effective.

Comfort: The mouthpiece should be comfortable to wear all night long. If it is too tight or too loose, it can cause discomfort and may not be effective.

Breathing: The mouthpiece should allow you to breathe easily. If it restricts your breathing, it can be dangerous.

Effectiveness: The mouthpiece should reduce the frequency and severity of apneic episodes.

Cost: Mouthpieces can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. It is important to choose a mouthpiece that is affordable for you.

Clinical validation: Some mouthpieces have been clinically validated to effectively treat sleep apnea. This means they have been tested in clinical trials and are safe and effective.

Material: Mouthpieces are typically made of plastic or silicone. It is important to choose a mouthpiece that is made of a material that is durable and comfortable.

Top 8 Best Sleep Apnea Mouthpieces

#1 Best Mad For Sleep Apnea – Vital Sleep Mouthpiece

The VitalSleep mouthpiece is a mandibular advancement device (MAD) that helps fight sleep apnea by gently positioning your jaw. This opens up your airway and prevents your tongue from blocking it.

What makes the VitalSleep mouthpiece unique is that it’s adjustable. This means that you can customize the fit to ensure it’s comfortable and effective.

If I do a quick VitalSleep overview, I can say it is made of high-quality materials and is backed by a money-back guarantee. So, if you’re not happy with it, you can simply return it for a refund.

Positive Insights

It’s very comfortable to wear, and I’ve noticed significantly reduced snoring. I’m also sleeping better than ever before.

One of the things that is impressive about the VitalSleep mouthpiece is that it’s adjustable. This means you can find the perfect fit for my mouth, making it much more comfortable to wear than other MADs out there.

It is appreciable that the VitalSleep mouthpiece is made of high-quality materials and backed by a money-back guarantee. This gives the user peace of mind, knowing he’s getting a quality product that he can return if he is unhappy.

Negative Insights

Some users have reported that the VitalSleep mouthpiece can cause mild side effects, such as dry mouth or jaw pain. However, these side effects are usually temporary and go away after a few days of use.

Another potential downside is that the VitalSleep mouthpiece is not suitable for everyone. People with severe OSA or other medical conditions should talk to their doctor before using a MAD.

#2 Best MAD Mouthpiece That Allows Natural Jaw Movement – ZQuiet

First I have a mouthpiece by ZQuiet in our list, ready to fight for your sleep apnea and help you get the rest you deserve. The ZQuiet mouthpiece is a mandibular advancement device (MAD) that gently repositions your jaw. This opens your airway and prevents your tongue from blocking it so you can breathe easily all night.

Unlike other MADs, the ZQuiet mouthpiece has a living hinge that allows your jaw to move naturally while you sleep. This makes wearing it more comfortable and less likely to cause jaw pain.

I’ve been using the ZQuiet mouthpiece for a few weeks now, and I’m blown away by the difference it’s made in my sleep. I used to wake up multiple times a night feeling winded and gasping for air. But now, I sleep through the night and wake up refreshed and energized. If you’re struggling with sleep apnea, the ZQuiet mouthpiece is a safe, effective, and comfortable way to get your desired sleep.

Positive Insights

It’s super comfortable to wear, and I’ve noticed significantly reduced snoring. I’m also sleeping better than ever before.

One of the most beneficial things about the ZQuiet mouthpiece is that it’s so easy to use. You just pop it in your mouth before bed and forget about it. It doesn’t restrict jaw movement or breathing, so it’s comfortable to sleep with.

Negative Insights

Some users have reported that the ZQuiet mouthpiece can cause mild side effects, such as dry mouth or jaw pain. However, these side effects are usually temporary and go away after a few days of use.

Another potential downside is that the ZQuiet mouthpiece is not suitable for everyone. People with severe OSA or other medical conditions should talk to their doctor before using a MAD.

#3 Best Hybrid Oral Appliace Mouthpiece – Zyppah

While doing Zyppah mouthpiece review, I found that It’s a hybrid oral appliance (HOA) that helps fight sleep apnea by gently positioning your jaw and holding your tongue in place.

It’s like a night guard for your airway, preventing your tongue from blocking it and letting you breathe freely.

What makes the Zyppah mouthpiece unique is that it combines the features of two other popular sleep apnea treatments: mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue retention devices (TRDs). This makes it a more effective and comfortable option for many people.

The Zyppah mouthpiece comes with a custom-fit design. Each mouthpiece is made to order based on an impression of your teeth, so it fits perfectly and feels comfortable all night long.

It is great for people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring. It’s also a good option for people who have tried other sleep apnea treatments and found them uncomfortable or ineffective.

Positive Insights

It’s very comfortable to wear, and users have noticed a significant reduction in my snoring. I’m also sleeping better than ever before. It’s custom-fit, which means it fits perfectly in my mouth and doesn’t cause any discomfort.

It has a 60-day money-back guarantee. Knowing that I can try it out risk-free gives me peace of mind.

Negative Insights

Some users have reported that the Zyppah mouthpiece can cause mild side effects, such as dry mouth or jaw pain. However, these side effects are usually temporary and go away after a few days of use.

Another potential downside is that the Zyppah mouthpiece is not suitable for everyone. People with severe OSA or other medical conditions should talk to their doctor before using an HOA.

#4 Most Comfortable Sleep Apnea Mouthpiece – Snorple

The Snorple is a nasal dilator that helps fight sleep apnea by opening the nasal passages. This allows more air to flow through the nose, reducing snoring and improving sleep quality.

The Snorple is unique because it is made of a soft, flexible, comfortable material. It is also very discreet, so you can wear it without anyone noticing. No wonder, it’s one of the best rated anti-snoring mouthpieces available.

The Snorple is a good option for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea seeking a non-invasive treatment. It is also a good option for people who have tried other sleep apnea treatments and found them uncomfortable or ineffective.

Positive Insights

I’ve been using the Snorple for a few weeks, and I’m impressed. It’s very comfortable to wear, and I’ve noticed significantly reduced snoring. I’m also sleeping better than ever before.

One of the most loveable things about the Snorple is that it’s so discreet. You can wear it without anyone noticing, which is important to most users. It is affordable and backed by a money-back guarantee, which means you aren’t risking anything by trying it.

Negative Insights

Some users have reported that the Snorple can cause mild side effects, such as dry nose or irritation. However, these side effects are usually temporary and go away after a few days of use.

Another potential downside is that the Snorple is only suitable for some. People with severe sleep apnea or other medical conditions should talk to their doctor before using a nasal dilator.

#5 Best Tongue Stabilizing Device for Sleep Apnea – Good Morning Snore Solution®

The Good Morning Snore Solution® is a tongue-stabilizing mouthpiece that helps to fight sleep apnea by preventing the tongue from falling back into the throat. It is made of soft, flexible material that is comfortable to wear and allows for natural breathing.

The Good Morning Snore Solution® is unique in that it is designed to work with the natural anatomy of the mouth. It also has a built-in breathing channel to ensure you can breathe freely while wearing it.

The Good Morning Snore Solution® is a good option for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea seeking a non-invasive treatment. It is also a good option for people who have tried other sleep apnea treatments and found them uncomfortable or ineffective.

Positive Insights

It’s very comfortable to wear. Users’ have seen a significant reduction in snoring, resulting in better sleep experiences.

Despite this, it’s easy to use. You must just pop it in your mouth before bed and forget about it. It’s also very durable; you don’t have to worry about breaking or falling out.

Negative Insights

Some users have reported that the Good Morning Snore Solution® can cause mild side effects, such as dry mouth or jaw pain. However, these side effects are usually temporary and go away after a few days of use.

Another potential downside is it is only suitable for some. People with severe sleep apnea or other medical conditions should talk to their doctor before using a tongue-stabilizing mouthpiece.

#6 Best Oral Appliance For Sleep Apnea – SleepTight Mouthpiece

The SleepTight mouthpiece is a hybrid oral appliance (HOA) that helps fight sleep apnea by gently positioning your jaw and holding your tongue in place. It is made of soft, flexible material that is comfortable to wear and allows for natural breathing.

What makes the SleepTight mouthpiece unique is that it combines the features of two other popular sleep apnea treatments: mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue retention devices (TRDs). This makes it a more effective and comfortable option for many people.

The SleepTight mouthpiece is a good option for people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring. It is also a good option for people who have tried other sleep apnea treatments and found them uncomfortable or ineffective.

Positive Insights

One of the most noticeable things about the SleepTight mouthpiece is its effortless use. You simply insert it into your mouth before going to bed, and then you can relax and forget about it.

It is also highly durable, so there is no need to worry about it breaking or falling out at night. It helps in snore reduction and better sleep.

Negative Insights

Some users have shared SleepTigh reviews that the SleepTight mouthpiece can cause mild side effects, such as dry mouth or jaw pain. However, these side effects are usually temporary and go away after a few days of use.

People with severe OSA or other medical conditions should talk to their doctor before using an HOA and this product.

#7 Best Mandibular Advancement Device For Sleep Apnea – SleepMD

Sleep apnea can be a real pain. It can cause you to snore loudly, wake up throughout the night, and feel tired during the day. If you have sleep apnea, getting treatment to improve your sleep quality and overall health is important.

SleepMD mandibular advancement device (MAD) helps you to treat sleep apnea. It is easy to use and comfortable to wear. It’s made of soft, flexible material that molds to your teeth. The device gently positions your jaw forward during sleep, which helps to keep your airways open.

You can notice a significant reduction in your heavy snoring habits, and it helps you sleep more soundly.

One of the things I like best about the SleepMD MAD is that it’s a non-invasive treatment option. You don’t have to wear a mask or use a machine; you can still talk and eat while wearing it.

Another advantage of the SleepMD MAD is that it’s adjustable. This allows you to find the most comfortable and effective position for your jaw.

Positive Insights

It’s a mandibular advancement device (MAD) that gently positions your jaw forward while you sleep. This helps to keep your airways open and reduces snoring and sleep apnea episodes.

It’s made of soft, moldable material that fits snugly over your teeth, making it a perfect choice for comfortable wear. It’s also adjustable to find the perfect position for your jaw.

It’s a non-invasive treatment option, so no surgery or medication is required. It’s also very affordable, especially when you compare it to the cost of other sleep apnea treatments.

Negative Insights

You can experience mild side effects such as jaw pain and dried mouth, but mostly, they’re for a short period.

Also, the SleepMD mouthpiece is only suitable for some. People with severe OSA or other medical conditions should talk to their doctor before using an oral appliance.

#8 SnoreRX Soft Palate Mouth Piece

SnoreRX is a mandibular advancement device (MAD) that helps fight sleep apnea by gently positioning your jaw during sleep. This opens up the airway and reduces snoring.

Here’s how SnoreRX works: It is adjustable in your mouth, allowing you to find the most comfortable and effective position for your jaw. SnoreRX is also made of soft, flexible material that is comfortable to wear all night.

Good option for people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring. So, if you’ve tried other sleep apnea treatments and found them uncomfortable or ineffective, this is what you need.

Positive Insights

It snugly fits into your mouth and doesn’t make you feel uncomfortable. One of the things I love most about SnoreRX is that it’s adjustable. This allowed me to find the perfect position for my jaw so I’m not experiencing any discomfort.

Negative Insights

Some users have reported that SnoreRX can cause mild side effects, such as dry mouth or jaw pain. However, these side effects are usually temporary and go away after a few days of use.

Another potential downside is that SnoreRX may not be suitable for everyone. People with severe OSA or other medical conditions should talk to their doctor before using a MAD.

Quick Mouthpiece Comparison

Mouth Piece Alternative Options For Managing Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Mewing For Sleep Apnea

There’s a strong correlation between mewing and sleep apnea. Basically, it’s a technique that involves placing the tongue on the roof of the mouth and applying light pressure. It has been shown to improve tongue posture, strengthen the jaw muscles, and widen the airway.

There is evidence that mewing may be helpful for people with sleep apnea. One study found that mewing for 6 months improved sleep quality and reduced the frequency of apneic episodes.

To mew for sleep apnea:

1. Place your tongue on the roof of your mouth, behind your front teeth.
2. Apply light pressure with your tongue to the roof of your mouth.
3. Keep your lips closed and your teeth slightly apart.
4. Breathe through your nose.

Mewing can be practiced at any time during the day, but it is especially beneficial to do it before bed.

Sleep Apnea Mouth Tapes

Mouth tape and sleep apnea are also interconnected with each other. It’s a simple, inexpensive way to reduce snoring and improve sleep quality. It involves putting a small strip of tape over your mouth before bed.

Mouth tapes work by forcing you to breathe through your nose. This helps to keep your airway open and prevents your tongue from collapsing into the back of your throat.

To use mouth tape for sleep apnea:

1. Choose a hypoallergenic tape that is designed for use on the skin.
2. Apply a small strip of tape across your lips, leaving a small gap for air to circulate.
3. Go to sleep as usual.

If you find mouth-taping uncomfortable, you can use it for a few hours each night and gradually increase the time you wear it.

Weight Loss

Losing weight can be helpful for people with sleep apnea, especially if they are overweight or obese. Excess weight can put pressure on the airways and make it more difficult to breathe.

A study found that losing just 10% of body weight can significantly reduce the severity of sleep apnea.

To lose weight for sleep apnea:

• Eat a healthy diet.
• Exercise regularly.
• Get enough sleep.

Oral Surgery

Surgery is an option for people with severe sleep apnea that does not respond to other treatments. Several different surgical procedures can be used to treat sleep apnea.

The most common type of surgery for sleep apnea is upper airway surgery. This surgery involves removing or repositioning tissue in the upper airway to create more space.

Another type of surgery for sleep apnea is tracheostomy. This surgery involves creating a small opening in the neck and inserting a tube to help you breathe.

How I Test Sleep Apnea Mouth Pieces and Night Guards

To select the above-provided products, I considered a variety of factors, including:

• User reviews: I read through hundreds of user reviews on Amazon and other platforms to get a sense of what real people have to say about each product. I looked for products with consistently high ratings and positive reviews.
• Popularity: I also considered the popularity of each product. I used Google Trends to see how often people were searching for each product, and I also looked at social media engagement.
• Recommendations: I consulted with sleep apnea experts, such as dentists and doctors, to get their recommendations for the best sleep apnea mouthpieces.
• Own experience and expertise: I have our own team of experts who have tested a variety of sleep apnea mouthpieces. I take into account their feedback and experiences when making our recommendations.

The products in this list are all highly rated by users, popular, and recommended by sleep apnea experts. However, it is important to understand that the most effective sleep apnea stopper is comfortable for you and that you can use consistently. All of the products on our list are effective, so it comes down to personal preference. It is important to note that sleep apnea is a serious medical condition, and it is important to talk to your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are sleep apnea mouthpieces comfortable to wear?

Absolutely, our sleep apnea mouthpieces prioritize comfort. Crafted for a tailored fit, you’ll experience night-long ease, ensuring a peaceful and comfortable sleep.

Do sleep apnea mouthpieces have any side effects?

Rest assured, our carefully selected sleep apnea mouthpieces prioritize your safety. With minimal side effects, you can confidently choose a worry-free solution for better sleep.

How long does it take to adapt to using a sleep apnea mouthpiece?

Personally tailored to your comfort, adapting to our sleep apnea mouthpieces is a breeze. Our expert insights and tips ensure a seamless integration into your nightly routine.

Can I use a sleep apnea mouthpiece if I have dental issues or wear braces?

It depends. We advice you to consult with orthodontist, ensuring a custom fit for your unique needs.

Are there age restrictions for using sleep apnea mouthpieces?

No age limits here. Our comprehensive guide ensures everyone can benefit from our sleep apnea mouthpieces, addressing any age-related concerns for a restful sleep experience.

How do I clean and maintain my sleep apnea mouthpiece?

To clean and maintain your sleep apnea mouthpiece, use a toothbrush and mild soap or denture cleaner daily. Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for optimal hygiene and longevity.