Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night.

These pauses can disrupt sleep and cause a number of other health problems such as daytime sleepiness, cardiovascular issues, and impaired cognitive function. For many people, over-the-counter (OTC) mouth guards for sleep apnea are a simple yet effective solution to this often debilitating sleep disorder.

Also known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs), mouth guards are oral devices that fit to the upper and lower teeth and gently shift the lower jaw forward to keep the upper airway open, promoting better breathing during sleep.

Many options are available but the quality and effectiveness can vary considerably from brand to brand.

In selecting the top five OTC mouth guards, we focused on user comfort, ease of customization, effectiveness, durability, and affordability.

Each mouthpiece we chose stands out for its unique features and the positive feedback from people with experience using them.

In creating this article, we aim to provide a good starting point for anyone seeking this type of easily accessible, non-invasive sleep apnea treatment treatment.

Quick Look: Best Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard

These are the five best mandibular advancement devices for treating sleep apnea in 2024:

1. Airsnore – Editors Choice
2. Vitalsleep
3. Zquiet
4. SnoreRX
5. SnoreMeds 

All of the above are high-quality devices produced by reputable companies. They are popular options with people worldwide and get plenty of praise for their abilities as sleep apnea mouth guards.

However, although customer feedback shows these mouth guards can be very effective for controlling the symptoms of mild to moderate sleep apnea, it’s always best to seek expert medical advice before trying any new method of treating sleep apnea.

Top 5 OTC Sleep Apnea Mouth Guards Reviewed and Compared

We will begin by taking a look at Airsnore because the combination of easy setup and excellent results allows it to be the best sleep apnea mouth guard to use for OSA treatment in the majority of cases.

#1 – Airsnore – Best Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard

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Airsnore is a mouthpiece designed to provide a simple solution for snorers and people with mild to moderate OSA. One of the standout features is its ease of use. Unlike some other devices that require complex fitting procedures, Airsnore has a simple boil-and-bite technology that makes it quick and easy for new users to set up at home.

Due to the quality of the materials involved, the resulting custom fit to the teeth makes the Airsnore mouth guard extremely effective and comfortable to wear throughout the night.

Airsnore stands out in a crowded market for its focus on comfort without compromising on functionality.

The manufacturer also offers an accompanying essential oil blend. When applied to the chest, these drops help soothe and open up breathing passages before bedtime, helping to provide a comprehensive approach to a good night’s sleep.

Although Airsnore drops are an optional extra that some people may not require, they can be very useful for people suffering from nasal congestion and have a therapeutic effect that helps promote sleep.

Airsnore’s combination of user-friendly design, comfort, and additional companion drops, makes it a great choice for anyone seeking a non-invasive and cost-effective way to keep their airways open at night, relieve sleep apnea symptoms, and/or control their snoring.

#2 – Vitalsleep – Good for Treating Sleep Apnea

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Vitalsleep is a customizable mandibular advancement device that offers precision adjustability and personalized fit, allowing users to fine-tune the positioning of their lower jaw to the degree that’s most effective and comfortable for them during sleep.

The adjustment is made possible via a special user-friendly mechanism called Accu-Adjust. This patented system provides incremental advancement of the lower jaw after the initial boil and bite.

The Acu-Adjust feature is particularly useful because it makes it possible to find the sweet spot where snoring is minimized without causing discomfort.

The ability to adjust the device up to 8 millimeters in either direction ensures Vitalsleep users can adapt the fit over time. This is an advantage over many one-size-fits-all solutions.

The combination of adjustability, personalization, and safe materials makes VitalSleep a compelling choice for anyone seeking a reliable and non-invasive solution to mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.

#3 – Zquiet – Effective Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard

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Zquiet is a revolutionary device that boasts a unique “Living Hinge” technology. This innovative feature allows for natural mouth movement during sleep, ensuring Zquiet users can breathe freely through their mouth and nose, talk, and even drink water without having to remove the device.

Crafted with comfort in mind, Zquiet is made from a soft, flexible material that adapts to the shape of your mouth. This flexibility eliminates the need for the molding or fitting processes that are common with other devices. It’s ready to use straight out of the box, making it one of the most convenient options on the market.

Zquiet users have the option to choose between two mouthpieces, each providing a different degree of jaw advancement. The 2-size starter kit makes it possible to begin with the milder option and then switch to the more advanced one if necessary.

Zquiet stands out for its ability to combine functionality with flexibility, offering a peaceful night’s sleep without the typical drawbacks of other mandibular advancement devices.

#4 – SnoreRX – Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard

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SnoreRX is an advanced mouthguard that’s known for its precision customization and robust design features, most notably, its unique MicroFit adjustment system. It makes it possible for users to calibrate the positioning of their jaw in 1-millimeter increments. This level of customization helps to ensure maximum effectiveness, along with a comfortable fit that users can tailor to their personal needs.

SnoreRX utilizes a special thermal matrix material that softens when heated, enabling a quick and easy boil and bite.  The resulting fit is akin to what you would get from a dentist-built MAD but without the associated high costs.

The device also features an open-front design, which promotes natural breathing through the mouth. This is particularly beneficial for those who cannot comfortably breathe through their nose while sleeping.

#5 – SnoreMeds – To Treat Sleep Apnea

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SnoreMeds is a straightforward and user-friendly oral device that takes note of the jaw size differences between women and men.

Men typically have a larger jaw than women. Because of this, they may require a slightly different fit to achieve the same level of snoring relief.

Both versions of the SnoreMeds mouthpiece utilize boil-and-bite technology to deliver a cost-effective custom fit.

Additionally, the devices feature air holes in their design to support the nighttime requirements of mouth breathers. The holes allow for uninterrupted breathing through the mouth during sleep. This can be an essential comfort factor for many users.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes your breathing to stop and start repeatedly during sleep. These breathing pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes and often occur 30 times or more in an hour.

When normal breathing finally resumes, it might be with a loud snort or choking sound. This condition can lead to a poor night’s sleep, resulting in fatigue and drowsiness during the day.

There are three main types of sleep apnea:

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): This is the most common form of the condition, where the throat muscles intermittently relax and block your airway during sleep.
2. Central Sleep Apnea: Unlike OSA, the airway isn’t physically blocked. Instead, the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe due to instability in the respiratory control center.
3. Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.

Loud snoring is one of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea. Other symptoms include abrupt awakenings with shortness of breath, waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat, morning headache, difficulty concentrating during the day, mood changes, high blood pressure, and nighttime sweating.

Left without treatment,  sleep apnea can increase the risk of several health issues such as high blood pressure, heart problems, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, complications with medications and surgery, and liver problems.

It can also contribute to performance issues at work or school and increase the likelihood of accidents due to fatigue or poor concentration. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it’s important to seek an evaluation by a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the risks associated with this condition and improve your quality of life.

The Role of Mouth Guards in Managing Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea mouthguards can be a game-changer for people suffering from OSA. They tackle the core problem of the condition—keeping the upper airway unblocked during sleep.

When you have OSA, your throat muscles relax too much, which can cause the airway to collapse and block your breathing. Mouth guards work by positioning your jaw slightly forward, which can help keep the airway open and reduce breathing interruptions.

There are two main types of mouthguards:

• Custom-Fitted Devices: These are made by dentists or orthodontists based on the specific contours of your teeth and jaw. A dental professional takes a mold of your mouth and then creates a mouth guard that fits your bite exactly. Custom devices can be prohibitively expensive, generally costing more than $1000. Obtaining them can also take some time due to the need for impressions, specialist manufacture, and subsequent setting up processes.

• Over-the-counter (OTC) Mouth Guards: These are ready-made devices that you can buy without a prescription. They are a lot cheaper than custom-built sleep apnea mouth guards and you can use them out of the box. Some options rely on sophisticated design features that provide easy adjustment. Others are “boil-and-bite” devices you soften in hot water and then bite into, creating a custom fit. Certain options are hybrids that offer a combination of boil and bite setup along with adjustment mechanisms for fine-tuning. Due to the market being flooded with low-grade options, it’s important to only buy OTC mouth guards from respected suppliers.

Both options can work well but neither one lasts forever. Although custom-fitted devices are more durable,  due to the price difference, OTC mouth guards are infinitely more cost-effective in the long run.

Mouth Guards for Sleep Apnea: A Look at the Research

Research involving sleep apnea patients is highly supportive of using mandibular advancement devices to control the symptoms of mild to moderate sleep apnea, with some studies showing them to be viable alternatives to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).

CPAP treatment involves the use of a special machine that prevents the airways from closing up during sleep by pumping them full of air via a face mask that’s worn during sleep. For many who are uncomfortable with this type of treatment or are poor candidates for it, mouth guards can be a great alternative.

In 1995, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (1995) stated that “MAD was indicated as first-line therapy for mild OSA and a second-line therapy for moderate to severe OSA.”

More recently, a systematic review and meta-analysis published in Sleep Medicine in January 2024 pointed out some OSA patients demonstrate better compliance with MAD therapy than CPAP and explored the value of using this type of oral device while sleeping in different body positions.

The National Library of Medicine also states that MAD’s are suitable treatment for OSA.

Meanwhile, the results of a similar clinical review, conducted in 2023, indicate this type of oral appliance therapy (sleep apnea mouthpieces) are treatment options that offer long-term stability.

Selecting the Right Mouth Guard for Sleep Apnea

When you are looking for a mandibular advancement device (MAD), to treat obstructive sleep apnea, finding the most appropriate option can make all the difference in achieving restful sleep. Here’s what to consider to ensure you choose the best option for your needs.

Comfort: The most crucial aspect of a mouth guard is comfort. If it’s not comfortable, you won’t wear it, rendering it useless. Look for a device that can be molded to fit your mouth’s shape. This will minimize any jaw pain or tooth discomfort that may arise from a poor fit and help you sleep better.

Adjustability: Everyone’s mouth is different, and over time, your needs may change. A mouth guard with adjustability features can be fine-tuned for the optimal position of your jaw, helping to maintain an open airway and adapt to any changes in your dental structure or snoring patterns.

Material Safety: Since the device will be in your mouth for hours at a time, ensure it’s made from non-toxic materials. Look for mouth guards that are BPA and latex-free and are FDA-cleared to ensure you’re not exposed to potentially harmful substances.

Ease of Use: If a mouth guard is complicated, you’ll be less likely to use it consistently. Choose one that’s simple to fit, easy to clean, and doesn’t require an elaborate setup before each use.

Personal needs should be at the heart of your decision. Consider your breathing preferences—do you breathe through your mouth or nose at night?

Also, think about your comfort tolerance—some people can handle a firmer fit, while others may need a softer, more pliable material.

In short, the right mouth guard should feel like it’s barely there, allowing you to drift off without interruption. Take the time to assess these factors thoughtfully, and you’ll find a device that not only eases your sleep apnea symptoms but also fits seamlessly into your nighttime routine.

Using Your Sleep Apnea OTC Mouth Guard Effectively

Getting a good night’s sleep with a mouth guard starts with proper acclimatization and maintenance.

Here are some tips to help you adapt to your new sleep companion and keep it in top condition:

Tips for Acclimatization

Wearing a mouth guard can feel strange at first, but with time, your mouth will adjust to its presence. Start by wearing the mouth guard for short periods during the day while you’re awake. This helps your jaw and mouth muscles adjust to the sensation.

Gradually increase the time you wear it each day until it feels natural. If there is any discomfort, take a step back and wear it for shorter periods, slowly working your way up as comfort allows. Although discomfort can be a problem with mouth guards of all types, including custom-built dental MADs, the risks are fewer when you choose high-quality options.

Cheap, unbranded, mouthpieces are best avoided, not only are they often made of low-grade plastics that are badly finished and may irritate the gums, but they may also fit poorly and fall from the mouth during sleep.

Maintenance and Hygiene

Keeping your mouth guard clean is critical for your oral health and the longevity of the device. Follow these steps for effective maintenance:

1. Rinse After Use: After each use, rinse the mouth guard with cool or lukewarm water to remove any debris.
2. Daily Cleaning: Clean it daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or mouth guard cleaner. Avoid hot water or harsh cleaners, as they can warp the material.
3. Air Dry: Allow it to air dry completely before storing it in its case. This prevents bacterial growth.
4. Regular Inspections: Check regularly for signs of wear and tear, which can affect its effectiveness.
5. Proper Storage: Keep the mouth guard in a ventilated case to protect it from damage and maintain hygiene.

By maintaining consistent cleanliness, you’ll prevent the buildup of bacteria that can cause bad odors, infections, or even degrade the device. With these simple habits, you’ll ensure that your mouth guard remains a safe and effective tool for OSA treatment for as long as possible.

We rate AIRSNORE as the most effective mouth guard for sleep apnea

Best Mouth Guards to Treat Sleep Apnea Summary

Sleep apnea isn’t just a condition that interferes with sleep quality at night, its after-effects can cause problems that last throughout the day. When ignored or left untreated, it can also increase susceptibility to additional medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart problems.

CPAP therapy is one of the most effective sleep apnea treatments but research shows that, for many people, using a mouth guard is an equally viable option and may be the superior choice in some cases.

Snoring is one of the main symptoms of OSA. It occurs when the soft tissues in the throat vibrate noisily before the airway closes and breathing halts. Although not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, most people with sleep apnea snore loudly.

Due to the larger market for anti-snoring devices, most manufacturers primarily focus on attracting customers who snore. However, there can be no denying the value this type of device has in both roles—snoring cessation and treating obstructive sleep apnea.

This article provides information about five of the best sleep apnea mouth guards on the market, along with tips on how to get the best from them and extend their usability. Although Airsnore stands out as the best device overall, the other oral appliances have design features that some people may find very attractive and may make them a better choice in some cases.

In the end, choosing the best OSA mouth guard means choosing the option that is the best fit for your own, unique requirements.