Send Us A Message

    Phone Number

    9999 2778

    Blog

    Sleep Apnoea Mouth Guard: Does It Really Work?

    By admin / Blog / No Comments
    Posted on
    No Comments

    Sleep Apnoea Mouth Guard

    sleep apnoea mouth guard​

    Table of Contents

    1. What Is Sleep Apnoea? 
    2. How Do Sleep Apnoea Mouth Guards Work? 
    3. Types of Sleep Apnoea Mouth Guards 
    4. Effectiveness: Do Mouth Guards Really Work? 
    5. Benefits and Drawbacks of Mouth Guards for Sleep Apnoea 
    6. Alternatives to Mouth Guards 
    7. Is a Sleep Apnoea Mouth Guard Right for You? 
    8. Conclusion 

    What Is Sleep Apnoea?

    Sleep apnoea is a common sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It can lead to poor sleep quality, fatigue, and more serious health issues if left untreated. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), where the throat muscles relax, blocking the airway.

    Symptoms of Sleep Apnoea:

    • Loud snoring 
    • Gasping or choking during sleep 
    • Daytime fatigue or drowsiness 
    • Morning headaches 

    For Australians suffering from mild to moderate sleep apnoea, a mouth guard for sleep apnoea is often recommended as an alternative to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines.

    How Do Sleep Apnoea Mouth Guards Work?

    A sleep apnoea mouth guard, also known as a mandibular advancement device (MAD), is designed to keep the airway open by repositioning the lower jaw and tongue slightly forward. This prevents the airway from collapsing during sleep, reducing snoring and apnoea episodes.

    Key Mechanisms of Mouth Guards:

    • Jaw Repositioning: Moves the lower jaw forward to reduce airway blockage. 
    • Tongue Stabilisation: Some devices prevent the tongue from falling backward. 
    • Increased Airflow: Helps maintain continuous airflow, reducing snoring and apnoea events. 

    Types of Sleep Apnoea Mouth Guards

    There are several types of mouth guards sleep apnoea patients can use, each offering unique features.

    1. Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)

    • The most common type. 
    • Adjusts the position of the lower jaw to prevent airway collapse. 
    • Custom-fitted by a dentist for better comfort and effectiveness. 

    2. Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)

    • Holds the tongue in place to prevent it from blocking the airway. 
    • Suitable for people with tongue-related obstructions. 
    • May cause more initial discomfort than MADs. 

    3. Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Mouth Guards

    • Custom-Fitted Guards: Tailored by dentists, offering a precise fit and better results. 
    • Over-the-Counter (OTC) Guards: Available at pharmacies but less effective due to generic sizing. 

    Effectiveness: Do Mouth Guards Really Work?

    Research shows that mouth guards for sleep apnoea can be effective for people with mild to moderate OSA. According to the Sleep Health Foundation, oral appliances can reduce apnoea episodes by 30–50%, making them a viable alternative to CPAP therapy for many patients.

    Studies and Clinical Evidence:

    • A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that MADs significantly reduced apnoea severity in patients with mild OSA. 
    • A clinical trial by the Australasian Sleep Association revealed that custom-fitted mouth guards improved sleep quality and reduced snoring in 70% of participants. 

    When Mouth Guards May Not Work:

    • Severe OSA: Patients with severe sleep apnoea may require CPAP or surgery. 
    • Obesity: Mouth guards are less effective in individuals with excess weight. 

    Benefits and Drawbacks of Mouth Guards for Sleep Apnoea

    Benefits:

    • Non-Invasive: No need for machines or surgery. 
    • Portable and Convenient: Easy to travel with. 
    • Improved Comfort: Less cumbersome than CPAP masks. 
    • Affordable: Generally cheaper than CPAP therapy. 

    Drawbacks:

    • Initial Discomfort: Jaw soreness and excessive salivation are common during the adjustment period. 
    • Limited Effectiveness: Less effective for severe OSA cases. 
    • Requires Maintenance: Regular cleaning and occasional adjustments are needed. 

    Alternatives to Mouth Guards

    While sleep apnoea mouth guards are effective for many, they may not suit everyone. Here are some common alternatives:

    1. CPAP Therapy:

    • The gold-standard treatment for moderate to severe OSA. 
    • Uses a machine to deliver continuous airflow. 
    • More effective but less comfortable than mouth guards. 

    2. Lifestyle Modifications:

    • Weight loss can reduce apnoea severity. 
    • Sleeping on your side may prevent airway collapse. 
    • Reducing alcohol intake before bed can minimise symptoms. 

    3. Surgery:

    • For severe cases, surgery may be considered. 
    • Procedures include uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) or maxillomandibular advancement (MMA). 

    Is a Sleep Apnoea Mouth Guard Right for You?

    If you have mild to moderate sleep apnoea, a mouth guard could be a practical and comfortable solution. It’s best to consult with a dental professional at Coburg Dental Group for a customised mouth guard tailored to your needs.

    Signs You May Benefit from a Mouth Guard:

    • You experience mild OSA symptoms. 
    • You find CPAP machines uncomfortable. 
    • You frequently travel and need a portable solution. 

    Conclusion

    A sleep apnoea mouth guard can be an effective solution for individuals with mild to moderate OSA, offering improved sleep quality and reduced snoring. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it provides a less invasive and more comfortable alternative to CPAP machines.

    If you’re considering a mouth guard for sleep apnoea in Australia, visit Coburg Dental Group for a consultation. Our dental professionals can provide a custom-fitted solution to help you achieve better sleep and overall health.