Can a Mouthguard Help Prevent Snoring? Here’s What You Need to Know
Snoring can disrupt a good night’s sleep, not just for the snorer but also for their roommates or partners. While there are numerous remedies suggested for snoring, one often overlooked solution is the use of a night mouthguard. However, the question of its effectiveness remains a topic of interest. This blog outlines how a night mouthguard for sleeping functions, its design, the science behind its application, and real-world outcomes.
Understanding Snoring and Its Causes
Snoring arises from the vibration of relaxed throat tissues as air passes through during breathing, leading to the well-known snoring noise. This condition is influenced by several factors, such as an individual’s age, the presence of nasal and sinus issues, excess body weight, the position in which one sleeps, and the consumption of alcohol. Each of these elements can exacerbate the relaxation and obstruction of the airway, increasing the likelihood and severity of snoring.
The Role of Night Mouthguards
A night mouthguard is a device designed to be worn during sleep. It serves multiple purposes, including protecting your teeth from grinding and potentially reducing snoring. By aligning the jaw or tongue in a position that facilitates better airflow, a night guard for teeth grinding can also inadvertently address one of the root causes of snoring. Here’s how it works:
- Preventing Teeth Grinding: Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can lead to or exacerbate snoring. A night mouthguard helps by cushioning your teeth and keeping them apart, thus reducing the strain on your jaw muscles and allowing for a more relaxed throat area.
- Improving Airflow: Some mouthguards are specifically designed to adjust the position of your jaw or tongue, enhancing the airflow through your throat. This can significantly reduce the vibrations that cause snoring.
Types of Mouthguards
Mouthguards come in various forms, each designed to address specific needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the types of mouthguards you might consider:
- Over-the-Counter vs. Custom-Fit: While generic mouthguards are readily available and can offer immediate relief, a custom-fit guard crafted by a dental professional is often more effective in providing long-term comfort and snoring reduction.
- Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): These devices are engineered to push your bottom jaw and tongue forward gently. This minor adjustment helps maintain an open airway throughout the night, reducing the likelihood of snoring.
- Tongue Stabilizing Devices (TSDs): TSDs keep the tongue stationary, preventing it from blocking the throat’s air passage. By securing the tongue, these devices can significantly diminish snoring intensity.
Final Thoughts
While a night mouthguard might not be a universal cure for snoring, it offers a viable solution for many. If you’re considering a mouth guard for sleeping to help with snoring, it’s essential to consult with dental professionals who can provide personalized advice and solutions. At Markham 7 Dental, our team is dedicated to helping you find the best solution for your needs. Contact us today to explore our services and get more information on how we can assist you in achieving a quieter, more restful night’s sleep.
