Mandibular Advancement Appliances (MAAs)
Also called “Mandibular Advancement Splints”, MAAs are very popular anti-snoring appliances. These appliances look like traditional athletic mouth guards, and are used to keep the jaw in place and prevent it from falling back during sleep, and thus blocking the airway and causing snoring.
Different models of MAAs are available (most of them are made of acrylic), and they usually require custom construction by a qualified dental professional. As such, MAAs can be a bit on the pricey side (as compared to some other non-surgical stop snoring solutions we’re looking at on this site).
However, when one factors in the hidden costs of snoring, including the emotional and psychological pain that it can cause an entire family, then the investment seems rather sound to a number of people!
Thornton Adjustable Positioners (TAPs)
Created by Dr. Keith Thornton in the mid 1990s, TAPs are considered to be on the higher end of the anti-snoring appliance spectrum, especially since some adjustments can be made by the actual snorer, and the material can be made of titanium. The Silencer™ is a popular brand name for a TAP that is receiving some positive feedback.
TAPs, similar to MAAs (discussed above), push the lower jaw forward and thus keep the tongue from blocking the airway to the lungs (and subsequently preventing noise-causing vibration).
Palate Lifters
An interesting anti-snoring appliance that is generating some attention are palate lifters, which are sometimes called lip shields and lip lifters. These appliances expand the palate, and thus reduce vibration in the airway.
Some opinion suggests that there is of yet a lack of clinical evidence to determine the efficacy and suitability of palate lifters.
However, this doesn’t mean that it’s not a potentially safe and effective solution. As more research is done, and more snorers work with their doctor and/or dentist to access this potential solution, more quality information will become available upon which to make a decision.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
CPAP is the most popular treatment for people suffering from Sleep Apnea (described earlier in this guide). Created in the 1980s, CPAP looks a bit like an oxygen mask, and helps maintain a free flowing respiration. Individuals who have gone to sleep clinics to treat Sleep Apnea will certainly be familiar with this apparatus.
CPAP’s come in a range of sizes, and (not unlike laptop computers); some are easier to carry around than others. However, as you can guess the lighter and more modern the CPAP, the higher the price tag. Some people, too, are a bit reluctant to wear this kind of appliance (which looks rather intimidating to some) while they sleep.
CPAP’s also help control blood pressure during sleep, which is a very valuable benefit (on top of the ceasing or reduction of snoring). For enhanced effectiveness, CPAP’s can sometimes be used in conjunction with other methods noted in this guide, such as throat sprays, nasal strips, and humidifiers.
Click for the next section.
