Written by Natalie Grigson, Writer
About 45 percent of people1 snore at least occasionally, while about 25 percent snore regularly. This loud noise, caused by the vibration of tissues in the back of the throat, can lead to sleep deprivation and even an increased risk for things like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease – not just for the person snoring, but their bed partner as well2.
So what are you supposed to do if you or your partner snores?
If you think your snoring is caused by something more serious, like sleep apnea, you’ll want to talk to your doctor, who may recommend CPAP therapy and lifestyle changes.
However, if your snoring is more occasional, is not extremely loud, and is not punctuated by pauses in breathing during the night, you might be a good candidate for one of these anti-snoring mouthguards.
Best Anti-Snoring Mouthguards
- SmartGuard Anti-Snore Device – Editor’s Pick
- VitalSleep Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece – Best Overall Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
- SnoreRX Plus Anti-Snoring Device – Most Comfortable Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
- PureSleep Anti-Snoring Dental Device – Best Anti-Snoring Mouthguard with a Free Trial
- SleepTight Mouthpiece – Best-Fitting Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
- Zquiet Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece – Best Budget Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
SmartGuard Anti-Snore Device – Editor’s Pick
SmartGuard RX Anti-Snore Device
SmartGuard was designed by a dentist to hold your lower jaw slightly forward, which helps reduce snoring by keeping the airway open. This anti-snoring mouthguard is available without a prescription.
SmartGuard Score
3.50 / 5
Why the SmartGuard RX Earned Editor’s Pick
If you are losing sleep over snoring, we know immediate relief is what you’re looking for. This mouthguard has the benefit of being sold on Amazon without the need for a prescription, so you can order it and receive it as soon as the next day.
SmartGuard was designed by dentist, Dr. Dave Spainhower, to custom-fit your unique mouth. Instructions on how to mold the mouthguard are included with your purchase.
It works by holding the lower jaw slightly forward to open up the airway and reduce snoring. The amount it holds your jaw forward can even be set at six different lengths, depending on what feels comfortable for you.
SmartGuard even comes with a 90-day trial. If it doesn’t help you during your first 90 days, you can return it and get your money back.
Our Take: We love the convenience of this product – no prescription required, super fast delivery, easy to custom fit to your mouth, and easy to return if you don’t like it. The instructions are also easy to follow, and for an over-the-counter product, this one is well worth the price.
What We Liked
- Adapts to all mouth sizes – Whether your mouth is shaped in a wide, standard, or narrow arch, this mouthguard is made to custom-mold to your unique mouth and teeth shape.
- Allows you to open and close your mouth – This mouthguard should comfortably hold the jaw in the correct position while allowing you to open and close your mouth.
- Backed by 90-day trial – SmartGuard offers a 90-day trial. If you are unsatisfied for any reason, you can send it back within 90 days, whether the guard is used or not.
- Can save you money – This device seems to be comparable in design to dentist-designed mouthguards, which can cost upwards of $1,500. It may also save you money if you have minor sleep apnea, as an alternative to CPAP therapy.
Potential Drawbacks
- May not work for teeth-grinders – If you grind your teeth, the bars on the sides of this device may not be strong enough to withstand the pressure.
- Results may vary – Some wearers report inconsistent results depending on the night or the quality of the product they receive in the mail.
- Not recommended for certain people – The manufacturer warns against people using this who have any severe respiratory disorders, central sleep apnea, jaw pain, loose teeth, or if you wear dentures, braces, or a retainer. It’s also not recommended for anyone under 18.
VitalSleep Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece – Best Overall Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
VitalSleep Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece
This over-the-counter mouthguard molds to your teeth to hold your jaw and tongue forward. It’s comfortable and safe to use, as it features hypoallergenic, BPA-free materials.
Vital Sleep Score
3.20 / 5
Why the VitalSleep Earned Best Overall Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
The VitalSleep Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece is another over-the-counter device that you can conveniently order from Amazon for fast delivery. This device also molds to your teeth and works by holding the jaw and the tongue forward to prevent the airway from collapsing and causing snoring.
Uniquely, this mouthpiece includes a small opening in the front, between your top and bottom teeth. This makes for easier breathing, should you happen to be congested and need to breathe through your mouth at some point.
It also uses hypoallergenic, BPA-free materials, so it should be safe to sleep with.
Our Take: We appreciate that this device is a cost-effective alternative to custom-made dental devices. It also seems to have a smaller profile than comparable mouthguards, meaning your mouth shouldn’t feel uncomfortably held open.
What We Liked
- BPA & latex-free – BPA, or bisphenol A, is a chemical used in certain plastics, which can seep into our bodies and may cause negative health effects3. Latex is another material that could cause harmful effects (for those with a latex allergy4). This device is free from both.
- Made in the U.S.A. – Many other mouthguards are made outside of the country and shipped overseas. For those looking to shop locally, this could be a nice perk.
- Boil and bite – This mouthguard has an easy-to-use “boil and bite” fitting process, which allows it to perfectly mold to your unique teeth and mouth.
- 60-night guarantee – VitalSleep says that if you’re not happy with the device, send it back within 60 nights for a refund.
- One-year warranty – VitalSleep offers free replacement devices within the first year of use.
Potential Drawbacks
- Might be too big for some – If you have a smaller mouth or are a female, this mouthguard may be too big for you. Luckily, VitalSleep has started making a women’s mouthguard that is sized smaller.
- May cause dry mouth – Some people find that this device, with the small gap in the front, can cause dry mouth.
- Not recommended for some – Like our Editor’s Pick selection, this device is not recommended for those who have severe respiratory disorders, central sleep apnea, jaw pain, loose teeth, who wear dentures, braces, or a retainer.
SnoreRX Plus Anti-Snoring Device – Most Comfortable Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
SnoreRX Plus Anti-Snoring Device
The SnoreRX Plus is lightweight and slim, featuring a simple design that allows maximum comfort at night. The mouthguard molds to your teeth and is adjustable.
SnoreRx Score
5.00 / 5
Why the SnoreRX Plus Earned Most Comfortable Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
The SnoreRX Plus is particularly lightweight, slim, and simplistic in its design compared to some other mouthguards. The result is a more comfortable night’s sleep, without sharp edges or parts that jut out that could cause discomfort.
Like the others on our list, the SnoreRX Plus molds to your teeth, so your mouth should be able to comfortably close while wearing it. It also adjusts depending on how far forward you need your jaw to be moved. They recommend starting with just 1 millimeter on your first night, and then gradually increasing this until your snoring stops, while still sleeping comfortably.
If this device doesn’t work for you, SmartRX offers a 30-night 100 percent money-back guarantee.
Our Take: This device seems comparable to some custom-made dental pieces, which can cost thousands of dollars. It should nestle the teeth comfortably, and by adjusting it gradually over time, you’ll give yourself time to get used to it.
What We Liked
- Made in the U.S.A. – This product is manufactured locally in Southern California, providing shoppers with another locally-made product on this list to choose from.
- Comes with a fitting handle – This mouthguard includes a handle for the fitting process, which makes it easier than some other devices.
- Higher quality – Compared to some other products, the SnoreRX Plus seems to be more durable and better made.
- Simple instructions – This device comes with simple-to-follow instructions and should only take a matter of minutes to fit and fully set up.
Potential Drawbacks
- Takes time to get used to – Most wearers report that this mouthguard takes some time (at least a few nights) to get used to.
- It’s more expensive – The SnoreRX Plus is a high-quality mouthguard, and with that, it comes at a slightly higher price. It retails at about $100.
- Takes slightly longer to deliver – This device is available from the SnoreRX website; not Amazon. This means that it may take slightly longer to deliver.
PureSleep Anti-Snoring Dental Device – Best Anti-Snoring Mouthguard with a Free Trial
PureSleep Anti-Snoring Dental Device
This anti-snoring device was designed by dentists, offering a comfortable and simple design. The mouthguard is easy to use as it’s less bulky than many competitors.
Why the PureSleep Earned Best Anti-Snoring Mouthguard with a Free Trial
The PureSleep Anti-Snoring device was designed by dentists and has been on the market for over 15 years. Not only does it cost less than some of its competitors, but it also comes with a 60-day free trial. If you don’t like it within this time, you can send it back for a full refund.
The design of this mouthguard should feel comfortable and less bulky than some of its competitors. This is because with PureSleep, you’ll adjust your settings during the initial fitting, and that’s that. Competitors often include a mechanism that allows you to keep adjusting the mouthguard, which can feel bulky in the mouth.
Our Take: PureSleep has been around for years, so the brand has a trusted history, and the 60-day money-back guarantee shows confidence in their product.
What We Liked
- Easy-to-follow instruction manual – The illustrated instruction booklet makes fitting and adjusting your PureSleep mouthguard simple.
- Convenient return process – If this isn’t the mouthguard for you, PureSleep makes returns and refunds easy. You won’t even have to pay for shipping.
- Company history – PureSleep was one of the first devices of its kind and has been on the market for over 15 years. As such, it has developed a trusted reputation.
- Made in the U.S.A. – All the materials and pieces of this device are manufactured in Minnesota. Their entire customer support team is also locally based.
Potential Drawbacks
- Plastic feels a bit hard – The plastic used on this device may feel a bit harder in the mouth than some of its competitors.
- May cause dry mouth – This device includes a small space between the top and bottom teeth to allow for occasional mouth breathing. For some people, this can cause the mouth and lips to feel dry.
- Takes time to get used to – This mouthpiece may feel uncomfortable and take several nights to get used to. It should not cause you pain, though, and if it does, take it out. You may have adjusted it so that it pulls your jaw too far forward, or it may just not be a good fit for you.
SleepTight Mouthpiece – Best-Fitting Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
SleepTight Mouthpiece
The SleepTight mouthpiece is used to treat mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. It’s an affordable mouthguard with a large airway opening.
Why the SleepTight Earned Best-Fitting Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
The SleepTight Mouthpiece is unique in that you need a prescription to order one, as it has been cleared to treat mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
Unlike other prescription devices that are custom-made by your dentist, this one costs significantly less. It also seems to fit just as well as a custom-made product since you’ll mold it specifically to your mouth.
It features a grooved design for a tighter, more snug fit in the mouth. This means you shouldn’t have to worry about it coming loose when you change positions, or clamping down on it for it to stay in place.
Our Take: As a prescription-only device, you can expect higher quality and a better fit than some over-the-counter products. We also love that this product comes with a risk-free 30-day trial, so you can see if it works well for you.
What We Liked
- Includes large airway opening – This mouthpiece has an airway opening of 6 millimeters, so you should be able to easily breathe, even if you’re congested.
- Double laminate construction – This makes this device more durable than some of its competitors.
- Designed by a dentist – This product was developed by U.S. dentist, Dr. Mike Williams, a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and a U.K.-based mouthguard researcher.
- Latex and BPA-free – If you’re concerned about latex or BPA exposure, the good news is that this product contains neither of these ingredients.
Potential Drawbacks
- Available by prescription only – You’ll need a doctor’s prescription to buy this product, which could be a drawback for those who prefer the convenience of not needing a prescription first.
- Takes some getting used to – Like other anti-snoring mouthguards, this one takes some time to get used to. We recommend giving it a few nights.
- May take longer to deliver – Since this product is not sold on Amazon and is only available by prescription, it may take a bit more time to get to you.
Zquiet Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece – Best Budget Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
Zquiet Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece
The Zquiet is an anti-snoring mouthpiece available in two sizes. This ready-to-use model is affordable and easy to use as it requires no boiling or biting.
ZQuiet Score
2.90 / 5
Why the Zquiet Earned Best Budget Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
The Zquiet Anti-Snoring mouthpiece comes in two different sizes, both included in the box. Unlike others on this list, these mouthguards are ready to use right out of the box. That means, no boiling and no biting necessary.
For some, this can be a benefit, as the boil and bite fitting process can be intimidating. For others, this might be a drawback since this mouthpiece will be less custom-fit to your mouth.
That said, it is priced to reflect its more simplistic design, and considering you get two mouthpieces in your order, this is one of the most affordable products on our list.
Our Take: Although this product is not custom-fit for your teeth, we think it could be a good affordable choice for those in need of a mouthguard.
What We Liked
- Easy to use – Without the hassle of fitting this device to your teeth, setting it up to wear is much simpler.
- It’s affordable – Compared to other anti-snoring devices, the Zquiet is budget-friendly. Amazon even offers an option to pay it off in four smaller payments if you need to.
- Fast delivery – Since this is sold on Amazon, you can order and receive it within the same day.
- Comes in two sizes – When you order this item, you’ll receive two separate mouthpieces; one comes with a 2-millimeter jaw adjustment and one with a 6-millimeter adjustment.
Potential Drawbacks
- Doesn’t custom-fit your mouth – This device doesn’t mold to your teeth, and as such, it may not feel as comfortable or work as well as other devices.
- Runs large – This mouthpiece tends to run large and feel bulkier than some of the other devices on our list.
- May cause tooth soreness – Since it doesn’t fit to your unique teeth, it may cause tooth or jaw soreness. If you notice this device shifting the alignment of your teeth, you should stop using it.
- No refunds or returns – This product isn’t eligible for returns or refunds through Amazon.
What Is an Anti-Snoring Mouthguard?
An anti-snoring mouthguard5 is a device worn throughout the night to help prevent snoring and sometimes, moderate sleep apnea. There are three main types of anti-snoring oral devices5:
- Mandibular advancement devices – These are made from molded hard plastic and they snap over the lower jaw and upper teeth. They work by repositioning the jaw forward by a large degree.
- Mouth guards – These are usually made from plastic and can help move the jaw forward but to a lesser degree.
- Tongue retaining devices – Rather than reposition the jaw, a tongue retaining device will reposition the tongue. It is like a soft, plastic splint that prevents the tongue from falling backward throughout the night.5
The reason anti-snoring mouthguards like the ones on this list work is that they move the jaw into a forward position and hold it there throughout the night.5 This helps keep your airway open and prevents the tissues in the back of your throat from vibrating together, which causes that snoring sound.5
What to Look for in Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
Type of Appliance
As mentioned, there are three main kinds of anti-snoring oral appliances: mandibular advancement devices, mouthguards, and tongue-retaining devices.5 Mandibular advancement devices reposition the jaw to a greater degree and are usually custom-made by a dentist. They are available by prescription only and can cost more money.5
Mouthguards work by moving the jaw forward, but to a lesser degree. As such, they can be available over-the-counter and cost less.5
Tongue-retaining devices work by holding your tongue in a particular position, so it won’t fall backward and block your airway during sleep. Oftentimes, you’ll need a sleep apnea diagnosis and a prescription to get one of these. However, many people report that tongue-retaining devices are quite uncomfortable.5
Customization
The “most customizable” mouthguard is a mandibular advancement device because it is designed specifically for you by a dentist. However, many over-the-counter mouthguards are also customizable. When shopping, look for the words “boil and bite,” which means the mouth guard can mold to your mouth and teeth.
Some over-the-counter mouthguards (like the last one mentioned on our list) are not customizable to your unique teeth and mouth, but they may be adjustable in other ways or come in various sizes.
Materials
Most over-the-counter anti-snoring mouthguards are made from a combination of hard and soft plastics.5 By contrast, most dentist-designed mandibular advancement devices will include some combination of plastic and metal.5
When shopping for an over-the-counter device, make sure that it says the device is “BPA-free.” BPA, or bisphenol A, is a chemical used in plastics that could be harmful to human health.3 If you happen to have a latex allergy, you’ll also want to make sure that your mouthguard says “latex-free.”
Comfort
When it comes to sticking to any sort of anti-snoring or sleep apnea treatment, comfort is key.
Most people report it takes a few nights to a week to get used to sleeping with their new anti-snoring mouthguard, but while some initial discomfort is to be expected, it should never feel painful, nor should it move or loosen your teeth.
If it feels painful, it may be a sign that it is moving your jaw too far forward and you need to adjust it to a lesser degree. If this doesn’t help, discontinue using the device or consult your dentist or healthcare provider.
Adjustability
Many anti-snoring mouthguards are adjustable. This means they are able to move your jaw forward to a greater or lesser degree; usually, this is somewhere between 1 and 6 millimeters.
Adjustability can be a helpful feature for getting used to your device. In this way, you can start on the lowest setting and then increase it as necessary.
Cleaning and Care
Any anti-snoring device will be subject to a great deal of wear and tear inside of your mouth, especially if you’re a teeth grinder. This means you’ll likely have to replace your mouthguard at least every nine months6 (if not sooner). To extend the lifespan of your device and keep your mouth healthy, experts recommend the following tips6:
- Clean it with baking soda and water once a week
- Brush it with toothpaste and a toothbrush daily
- Let it soak with denture tablets once a week
- Store your device in a cool, dry place every day
It’s also important to make sure your mouth is clean each night before you put in your anti-snoring mouthpiece to prevent any bacteria buildup.
Over-the-Counter or Prescription
The general rule is that the more advanced and customized the anti-snoring device, the more likely you will need a prescription to obtain it. For example, mandibular advancement devices, custom-created by dentists, are available by prescription only. Anti-snoring mouthguards are available both over-the-counter and by prescription.
Also, if you’re trying to use insurance to help pay for your anti-snoring device, you’ll need a prescription. That said, most over-the-counter anti-snoring mouthguards are affordable without insurance.
Trial Periods and Warranties
Many anti-snoring mouthguards offer trial periods and/or warranties. During the trial period, you’ll be able to try out the mouthguard at home. If it doesn’t work for you, you should be able to send it back during your trial period for a refund. Oftentimes, trial periods are between one and three months.
A warranty, on the other hand, generally lasts longer and should provide coverage in the event your device breaks within the warranty period. The company will usually replace or repair the device. However, it’s more likely they’ll just replace an anti-snoring mouthguard rather than repair it.
Certifications
Look for the words “FDA cleared” or “FDA approved”7 when shopping for your anti-snoring mouthguard. “FDA cleared” means the device has undergone a 510(k) submission and has been cleared to be sold by the FDA, whereas “FDA approved” means the device has undergone a rigorous review and approval process by the FDA.7
Other Anti-Snoring Devices
- Nasal dilators – Nasal dilators can be either placed along the bridge of the outside of the nose (nasal strips) or internally as mechanical devices8. The purpose of a nasal dilator is to dilate (expand) the nose to allow more airflow in.8
- Nasal strips – Nasal strips are an affordable, over-the-counter type of nasal dilator.8 They are adhesive and placed on the outside of the nose and can help with mild cases of snoring. However, experts say9 that nasal strips won’t help those with sleep apnea or other underlying conditions.
- Pillows – Certain pillows can help with snoring by elevating the head to keep the airway from collapsing. Explore our picks for the best pillows for snoring here.
- Smart devices – There are all sorts of smart devices to help with snoring, including mechanical dilators and apps on your phone that listen for snoring. There’s also the Oura ring, which measures sleep quality, and even pillows that inflate or deflate, depending on how you’re breathing.
- Adjustable bases – Research shows that sleeping at an inclined position can reduce snoring10. This is because the airways can remain more open. Adjustable bed frames can be a great way to elevate your torso until you notice a decrease in your snoring.
When Should You See a Doctor About Your Snoring?
Experts at Yale Medicine advise speaking to your doctor about snoring if you snore loudly and regularly11. This is often a sign of obstructive sleep apnea12, a serious sleep disorder in which the breathing starts and stops throughout the night.
Other indications it might be sleep apnea include excess weight, changes in memory, inability to concentrate, insomnia, morning headaches, dry mouth, irritability, and daytime fatigue.12
If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, liver problems, and complications with surgeries and certain medications.12
Learn more: When Snoring is Dangerous: Facts about Sleep Apnea
Frequently Asked Questions
Do mouthguards actually stop snoring?
For people whose snoring is caused by a narrowing of the airway due to the jaw or tongue relaxing during sleep, certain mouthguards could help reduce snoring. For those who are snoring because of a nasal obstruction (like congestion or a deviated septum), mouthguards won’t alleviate snoring.
What are the side effects of anti-snoring mouthguards?
Some possible side effects13 of anti-snoring mouthguards include dry mouth, drooling, loose teeth, bite change, a negative impact on dental work, or pain in the teeth or jaw.
Do you have to use an anti-snoring mouthguard every night?
If you are using your anti-snoring mouthguard to treat sleep apnea, you’ll need to use it (or some other sleep apnea treatment like CPAP therapy) every night. You don’t want to leave sleep apnea untreated, even occasionally, as it can cause major health complications.12
If you don’t have sleep apnea and are simply using your mouthguard to treat mild snoring, you can use it every night, but it won’t be dangerous if you don’t.
Natalie Grigson
Writer
About Author
Natalie is a content writer for Sleep Advisor with a deep passion for all things health and a fascination with the mysterious activity that is sleep. Outside of writing about sleep, she is a bestselling author, improviser, and creative writing teacher based out of Austin.
Combination Sleeper