Snoring, which is a usual condition present in the majority of humans, influences their sleep pattern directly. Air does not pass through the nose and throat when someone is asleep, and the movement of tissues in the throat causes vibrations responsible for this condition. The majority of people utilize a snoring guard dental appliance in order to attempt to prevent snoring. However, do snore guards in South Tampa really stop snoring completely? Let’s find out.
What is a Snore Guard?
A snore guard is a mouth appliance for snoring that keeps the airway open while sleeping. It is a small mouthpiece that fits over the teeth and moves the lower jaw slightly forward. The position of the jaw prevents the tongue and the soft tissue from blocking the airway, thus reducing vibrations and resulting in snoring.
Usually, dentists prescribe snore guards for mild to moderate snoring patients. In general, these are manufactured from plastic or silicone and fitted by a dentist for comfort and efficacy.
How Do Snore Guards Work?
This is how snore guards work:
- Repositioning the jaw- This appliance moves the lower jaw slightly to avoid blocking the airway.
- Keeping the tongue in position– It prevents the tongue from falling backward and blocking the air to breathe.
- Opening Airway: Because of the correct jaw positioning, air passes freely through the throat, reducing or eliminating snoring sounds.
Snore Guard Effectiveness
The majority of people find snore guards effective, yet they fail to provide relief for some individuals. A dental device for snoring achieves success based on the underlying reason for snoring. The effectiveness of snore guards depends on their ability to address airway blockage caused by tongue and jaw position. However, if snoring is due to nasal congestion, obesity, or sleep apnea, other treatments may be needed.
Some key points about snore guard effectiveness include:
- Good for Mild to Moderate Snoring – Patients with mild snoring have excellent results.
- Less Effective for Worst Cases – If snoring is caused by sleep apnea, a CPAP machine may be necessary.
- Better When Custom-Fitted – A snore guard made by a dentist is better than an over-the-counter snore guard.
- May Take Time to Adjust – Some users experience discomfort initially but adapt to it eventually.
Can Snore Guards Stop Snoring Completely?
A snore guard can reduce snoring, but it may not stop it completely for everyone. Some people may still snore, but the sound is usually quieter. The effectiveness depends on factors like sleep position, lifestyle, and the severity of the snoring problem.
To improve results, people using a dental device for snoring should:
- Sleep on Their Side – Sleeping on the back can make snoring worse.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight – Extra weight can put pressure on the airway.
- Avoid Alcohol Before Bedtime – Alcohol relaxes throat muscles, leading to more snoring.
- Practice Good Sleep Habits – Getting enough sleep can reduce snoring episodes.
When to See a Dentist?
If snoring continues even with a snore guard, it is important to see a dentist. Snoring can sometimes be a sign of a serious condition called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). People with OSA may stop breathing during sleep, which can lead to health problems like high blood pressure and heart disease. A dentist can recommend the right treatment based on the cause of snoring.
Wrapping Up
A snore guard is a helpful dental device for snoring that can reduce or even stop snoring in many cases. However, its effectiveness depends on the cause of snoring. While it works well for mild to moderate snoring, it may not completely stop snoring in every person. For the best results, it should be used along with good sleep habits and lifestyle changes. If snoring persists, it is important to consult a dentist for further evaluation.
By understanding snore guard effectiveness, people can make informed choices about their snoring treatment and enjoy better sleep.
Snore Guards: A Simple Solution for Snoring!
If you are looking for expert dental care, Charles Martin DDS is here to help. Our clinic provides personalized treatments for a healthy smile, including solutions for snoring and sleep issues. With years of experience, our team offers high-quality care in a comfortable setting.
Call us today to schedule an appointment!