Can a Night Guard Help With Snoring?

Snoring is a common issue that affects both the person snoring and their sleep partner. For some, it's just a minor nuisance, but for others, it can signal an underlying health condition. Many patients ask: can a night guard help with snoring? The short answer is yes, night guards can sometimes reduce snoring by adjusting the position of your jaw and helping keep your airways open. However, not all night guards are designed for this purpose, and results can vary depending on the cause of snoring.

In this blog, we’ll explore how night guards work, the different types available, their benefits and limitations, and whether they might be the right solution for you.

Best Night Guard for Snoring and Grinding

Many people who snore also suffer from teeth grinding (bruxism). In such cases, choosing the best night guard for snoring and grinding is important.

• Custom-fitted night guards: These are made by dental professionals and tailored to your bite. Because they fit snugly, they not only protect your teeth from grinding but can also help reposition the jaw and tongue slightly forward, which reduces airway obstruction.
• Mandibular advancement devices (MADs): These oral appliances are designed to move the jaw forward, keeping the airways open during sleep. They are one of the most effective solutions for people who snore due to mild obstructive sleep apnea.
• Over-the-counter guards: While more affordable, they may not offer the same level of comfort or effectiveness as custom-made appliances.

For those dealing with both grinding and snoring, a custom oral appliance prescribed by a dentist is usually the best choice.

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Best Mouth Guard for Snoring

So, what is the best mouth guard for snoring? That depends on the cause of your snoring.

If your snoring is caused by the soft tissues at the back of your throat vibrating, an appliance that gently repositions your lower jaw may be effective. These mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are often recommended over simple guards that only protect the teeth.

Do Night Guards Stop Snoring? In some cases, yes. But not every night guard is built for this purpose. Standard guards designed for bruxism may reduce grinding-related noise but won’t always impact airway-related snoring.

Can a Night Guard Cause Snoring?

Interestingly, some people wonder: can a night guard cause snoring?

The answer is that it depends on the design of the guard. A poorly fitted or bulky night guard may push the jaw and tongue backward, narrowing the airway and actually increasing snoring. This is especially true with over-the-counter guards that aren’t customized to your bite.

This is why working with a dental professional is so important. A custom-fitted guard ensures comfort and effectiveness, reducing the risk of side effects like increased snoring or jaw pain.

Is Sleeping With a Mouth Guard Dangerous?

Patients often ask: is sleeping with a mouth guard dangerous? The good news is that for most people, mouth guards are very safe. They are widely prescribed for conditions such as teeth grinding and mild sleep apnea.

However, it’s important to note:

• Over-the-counter options may not always fit properly, leading to discomfort or even worsening of symptoms.
• A poorly designed guard could cause jaw misalignment, headaches, or contribute to jaw pain.
• For individuals with severe obstructive sleep apnea, a mouth guard should never replace medical treatments like a CPAP machine.

When prescribed and monitored by a professional, night guards are a safe and effective tool for improving sleep quality.

Does a Night Guard Help With Sleep Apnea?

Another common question is: does a night guard help with sleep apnea?

For those with mild sleep apnea, custom appliances, especially mandibular advancement devices (MADs), can significantly reduce symptoms by keeping the airway open during sleep. These devices work by gently repositioning the lower jaw and tongue to prevent airway collapse.

Do Teeth Grinding Guards Work for Snoring? Not always. Standard guards for bruxism may not address airway obstruction, but specialized oral appliances for snoring and apnea can.

For moderate to severe cases, a CPAP machine or a combination of treatments may be recommended instead.

Types of Mouth Guards & How They Protect Your Teeth

Night guards are not one-size-fits-all. Here are the main types of mouth guards & how they protect your teeth:

1. Soft night guards – Best for mild grinding, offering cushioning but limited durability.
2. Hard acrylic guards – More durable, suitable for heavy grinders, but less comfortable.
3. Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) – Specifically designed to reduce snoring and mild sleep apnea by advancing the jaw forward.
4. Combination guards – Custom designs that address both grinding and airway issues.

By selecting the right type, you can both protect your teeth and potentially reduce snoring.

Final Thoughts: Can a Night Guard Help With Snoring?

So, can a night guard help with snoring? The answer is yes, for many patients, especially those with mild snoring or mild sleep apnea, a custom oral appliance can make a big difference.

However, not all night guards are created equal. While some are designed only to protect against grinding, others like mandibular advancement devices can actively reduce snoring by keeping the airways open.

At Raio Dental, our team specializes in TMJ treatment, oral appliances, and snoring solutions tailored to your needs. If you’ve been wondering, does night guard help with snoring? The best next step is a consultation with our experts.

Learn more about our TMJ specialist services in New York and discover whether a custom night guard could be the right solution for you.