Snoring not only disrupts sleep quality but can also have serious health consequences. In the worst-case scenario, it can lead to pauses in breathing during the night—a condition known as sleep apnea. Even milder symptoms such as daytime sleepiness, fatigue, hoarseness, or a sore throat can be very debilitating over time. Here in Zurich, we often recommend functional therapy using an anti-snoring mouthguard.
The anti-snoring or protrusion mouthguard mechanically counteracts snoring by keeping the throat open during sleep. The patient can once again sleep soundly and relaxed, as can their partner.
If you suffer from nighttime snoring and would like to learn more about possible treatments, please feel free to schedule a no-obligation appointment at our dental practice in Zurich. Our dentists will provide you with detailed advice on splint therapy and whether an anti-snoring splint could help you.
What is an anti-snoring splint?
The anti-snoring splint is a two-part splint system that is custom-made in a dental laboratory. The splint consists of two plastic splints for the upper and lower jaws, as well as a connecting joint. This connecting piece slightly advances the lower jaw during sleep and opens the bite. This prevents the tongue from falling back into the throat and blocking the airways.
There are various types of anti-snoring mouthpieces that work slightly differently and are used for different conditions. However, all anti-snoring mouthpieces share the same goal: to mechanically keep the airways open and thus ensure unobstructed breathing during sleep.
Who might benefit from an anti-snoring mouthpiece?
In principle, the protrusion splint is suitable for anyone who snores at night and suffers from the consequences. Splint therapy is particularly recommended for patients with nocturnal breathing pauses. Regardless of the severity of the symptoms, the anti-snoring splint provides quick and effective relief without the need for extensive treatment.
However, in parallel with splint therapy, potential causes of snoring should also be identified and, if possible, treated. Important risk factors include, for example, being overweight, the consumption of alcohol and sedatives, allergies, chronic inflammation, or a deviated nasal septum.
A prerequisite for treatment with the anti-snoring mouthguard is that there are no contraindications from a dental perspective. Your teeth should be largely healthy, and any existing dental prostheses should be securely anchored. Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination beforehand and then discuss with you whether mouthguard therapy is possible in your case.
How does treatment with the anti-snoring mouthguard work?
During a detailed preliminary consultation, your dentist will explain how the protrusion splint works and how to use it. He will then take an impression of your upper and lower jaws, which will be used to custom-make your anti-snoring splint in a dental laboratory.
As soon as the anti-snoring mouthguard arrives in Zurich, your dentist will personally hand it over to you. During this visit, the mouthguard will be checked once again to ensure it fits correctly and functions properly. You’ll receive final instructions on how to care for the mouthguard and can start using it right away.
During regular follow-up appointments, the dentist will assess the success of the treatment and check the condition of the splint. Depending on the findings, treatment of the underlying causes may be carried out concurrently.
How much does the anti-snoring splint cost?
The cost of the protrusion splint depends on the specific design and the complexity of the treatment. Consequently, there can be significant variations from case to case. Feel free to consult one of our specialists to find out how much the fabrication and fitting of your anti-snoring splint in Zurich is likely to cost.
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, the cost of the protrusion splint is covered by basic health insurance. All other patients generally have to cover the costs themselves, unless you have supplemental dental insurance. In that case, coverage is often possible.
FAQ
Snoring occurs in the upper respiratory tract when the soft palate relaxes during sleep or the tongue falls back into the throat. This partially blocks the throat, causing vibrations when breathing in.
Specific causes of snoring can include, for example, obesity, chronic sinus inflammation, allergies, or anatomical abnormalities of the nose. For many people, symptoms worsen in certain situations, such as after consuming nicotine or alcohol.
Medical causes can sometimes be treated with medication. This usually leads to the snoring improving on its own. Avoiding alcohol and certain medications can also lead to improvement. However, you should only stop taking prescription medications after consulting your doctor.
Surgical procedures are rarely recommended for snoring. In Zurich, we more often recommend functional therapy using an anti-snoring mouthguard. With this approach, we reposition the tongue during sleep so that you can breathe freely even when you’re completely relaxed.
Snoring occurs when the throat becomes blocked, restricting the flow of air. In the worst-case scenario, this can lead to sleep apnea. This condition causes a temporary lack of oxygen, which, among other things, increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Many people with snoring problems also suffer from daytime sleepiness, hoarseness, sore throats, and dry mouth. Restful sleep is often impossible.
The protrusion splint gently moves the lower jaw forward while you sleep, preventing the tongue from falling back into the throat. This keeps the airways open even when you are completely relaxed.
The anti-snoring mouthpiece should not cause you any pain if it is fitted correctly. At first, you may find sleeping with the mouthpiece feels unusual. However, this should quickly go away once you get used to the new situation.
The lifespan of an anti-snoring mouthguard can vary slightly depending on how much it’s used and how well it’s cared for. Generally, these mouthguards last about 3–5 years. If you notice that the mouthguard no longer fits properly, it’s recommended that you have it checked by your dentist. A proper fit is crucial for the anti-snoring mouthguard to function effectively. If necessary, your dentist will make the necessary adjustments or provide a replacement.
You should clean your anti-snoring mouthpiece daily with a soft toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste or liquid soap. Special cleaning solutions or dish soap are also suitable. However, you should avoid using very hot water, harsh chemicals, and abrasive cleaners. You should also avoid using toothpaste containing abrasive particles, as it can damage the material.