Chinstrap vs. Snoring Mouthpiece
Both devices are the most recognized snore solutions available. Learn which snoring aid will work the best for you.
What is a Snoring Mouthpiece?
A snoring mouthpiece is a device that moves the lower jaw forward to maintain an open airway during sleep. There are a variety of snoring mouthpieces which include:
Oral Appliances
Often prescribed by dentists and sleep physicians, oral appliances are considered an alternative to CPAP therapy for the treatment of snoring and sleep apnea. Similar to a MAD, an oral appliance moves the jaw slightly forward to stop snoring.
Prefabricated Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD)
These devices are an affordable alternative to oral appliances and allows the user to create a custom impression in their own home. MADs often resemble a sports mouthguard.
Tongue Retaining Devices (TRD)
Tongue retaining devices holds the tongue forward by creating a vacuum. They look similar to a pacifier.
What is a Snoring Chinstrap?
A snoring chinstrap is a type of headgear made of fabric that supports the jaw to keep the patient’s mouth closed and forces breathing through the nose.
Snoring chinstraps are often one of the first treatment options due to their affordability and ease of use. Unlike other snoring aids such as mouthpieces and nasal dilators, chinstraps are worn externally and considered a less invasive option to stop snoring. Most chinstraps can fit most people in one standard size and utilizes velcro material to adjust the jaw to the proper position.
Despite its ease of use, there are a considerable health concerns with using a chinstrap. For example, mouth breathers may restrict adequate oxygen if they are unable to adequately breathe through their nose.
The Pros and Cons of Adjustable Snoring Mouthpieces and Chinstraps
Snoring Mouthpieces
- Affordable and inexpensive.
- Highest success rate to stop snoring.
- Accommodates mouth breathing.
- Not suitable for those who have dentures or bridges.
- May require time to get adjusted to the device.
- Must be replaced after a certain amount of time (generally 6-12 months).
Snoring Chinstraps
Least invasive snore solution Easy to use/wear. Does not work for most people. Not suitable for mouth breathers. May cause jaw pain and discomfort, encourage clenching.
Should You Use a Snoring Mouthpiece or a Chinstrap?
Although snoring mouthpieces are generally considered to be the better choice, chinstraps are a viable option for those who want to evaluate all snoring solutions.
A snoring mouthpiece might be the right choice if:
- You want the use the most reliable solution to stop your snoring.
- You would like the option to breathe through your mouth throughout the night.
A chinstrap might be the right choice if:
- You wear dentures or bridges.
- You prefer not to wear a mouthpiece at night.
Although snoring mouthpieces are generally considered to be the better choice, chinstraps are a viable option for those who want to evaluate all snoring solutions.
What Snoring Aid is Best for Me?
Deciding what type of snoring aid to buy? Review our list of snoring aids to determine which option is best for you.