Snoring Mouthguards: Do They Work and Which One Is Best for You?

Person in blue shirt sleeping peacefully on a bed with a soft, patterned blanket. The setting is calm and dimly lit.

Snoring is a common problem that affects millions of people in the UK. While snoring can be harmless, it often leads to disrupted sleep, fatigue, and frustration for both the snorer and their partner. Chronic snoring can also be a sign of an underlying condition, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

One of the most popular and widely recommended solutions for snoring is a snoring mouthguard. Also known as an anti-snoring mouthpiece, these devices aim to reduce or eliminate snoring by keeping the airway open.

But do they actually work?

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover:

The causes of snoring and why mouthguards help
The different types of snoring mouthguards and how they compare
NHS recommendations and availability in the UK
The best anti-snoring mouthguards you can buy
Potential side effects and who should avoid them
Alternative treatments for snoring

If you or someone you know struggles with snoring, this guide will help you make an informed decision on whether a snoring mouthguard is the right solution.

What Causes Snoring?

Snoring occurs when airflow is partially obstructed, causing the soft tissues in the throat and airway to vibrate. The obstruction can be caused by several factors, including:

Relaxed throat muscles – When we sleep, the muscles in the throat relax. In some cases, they become too relaxed, partially blocking the airway.
Nasal congestion – A blocked or congested nose can force you to breathe through your mouth, increasing the likelihood of snoring.
Obesity or excess weight – Extra tissue around the neck can put pressure on the airway, making it more likely to collapse during sleep.
Alcohol and sedatives – These relax the throat muscles even further, making snoring worse.
Sleep position – Sleeping on your back can cause the tongue and soft tissues to fall backward, obstructing airflow.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – In some cases, snoring is a symptom of a serious condition where breathing stops and starts repeatedly during sleep.

Snoring mouthguards work by physically adjusting the position of the jaw or tongue to prevent airway collapse.

How Do Snoring Mouthguards Work?

Snoring mouthguards are designed to prevent airway obstruction by either:

Repositioning the lower jaw (mandibular advancement devices or MADs)
Holding the tongue in place (tongue retaining devices or TRDs)

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)

MADs are the most common type of snoring mouthpiece. These devices move the lower jaw forward slightly, which:

Prevents the tongue from falling back
Reduces the collapse of soft tissues in the throat
Keeps the airway open throughout the night

Many MADs use a boil-and-bite design, where you soften the material in hot water and mold it to fit your teeth. Others are adjustable, allowing users to set the level of jaw advancement.

Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)

TRDs work by holding the tongue in place using suction, preventing it from blocking the airway. These are often recommended for people who:

Have dental issues that prevent them from using a MAD
Have jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder
Are primarily tongue-based snorers

While effective for some, TRDs can take longer to get used to and may cause excessive saliva production at first.

NHS Recommendations on Snoring Mouthguards

The NHS provides mandibular advancement devices for people diagnosed with moderate to severe sleep apnea. However, they are not usually prescribed for simple snoring.

If you snore but do not have sleep apnea, you’ll likely need to buy a snoring mouthguard privately.

Key NHS recommendations for snoring treatment:

Weight loss and lifestyle changes are encouraged before using a mouthguard.
Mouthguards are effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea and snoring.
NHS-provided MADs are typically custom-made by a specialist.

For snoring without sleep apnea, over-the-counter snoring mouthpieces are widely available in the UK.

The Best Snoring Mouthguards in the UK

There are many snoring mouthpieces available, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium custom-fitted devices.

Comparison of the Best Anti-Snoring Mouthguards

Mouthguard	Type	Best For	Price Range
Snoreeze Oral Device	MAD	Mild to moderate snoring	£30–£50
SleepPro Custom	MAD	Custom fit for comfort	£90–£150
VitalSleep	MAD	Adjustable jaw positioning	£50–£80
ZQuiet Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece	MAD	Easy to use, no boiling required	£60–£100
Good Morning Snore Solution	TRD	Tongue-based snoring	£70–£110

Snoring mouthguards are available from Boots, Amazon, and specialist online retailers.

Do Anti-Snoring Mouthguards Really Work?

Studies have shown that mandibular advancement devices can reduce snoring symptoms in 70 to 80 percent of users.

However, their effectiveness depends on:

The cause of snoring – Best for jaw-related or tongue-related snoring but less effective for nasal congestion.
The fit – Poorly fitted mouthpieces may cause discomfort or jaw pain.
Consistency – Users may need a few nights to adjust before seeing full benefits.

Mouthguards may not eliminate snoring entirely but can significantly reduce noise and improve airflow.

Who Should and Shouldn’t Use a Snoring Mouthguard?

Best candidates for a snoring mouthpiece:

People with mild to moderate snoring
Those diagnosed with mild sleep apnea
Individuals with jaw-related airway obstruction

Who should avoid them:

People with severe sleep apnea (CPAP therapy is often recommended)
Those with dental issues, loose teeth, or severe jaw pain
Individuals with nasal breathing difficulties

If you experience persistent snoring or breathing interruptions, consult a sleep specialist before using a mouthpiece.

Alternatives to Snoring Mouthguards

If a mouthguard is uncomfortable, consider other options:

Nasal strips or dilators – Open nasal airways for better breathing.
Side sleeping – Helps prevent airway collapse in back sleepers.
CPAP therapy – Best for treating moderate to severe sleep apnea.
Lifestyle changes – Weight loss, reducing alcohol intake, and quitting smoking can improve snoring.

Combining treatments may provide better long-term results.

Final Thoughts: Should You Try a Snoring Mouthguard?

Snoring mouthguards are a proven solution for many snorers, especially those with jaw-related airway obstruction. The NHS recognises mandibular advancement devices as effective for mild sleep apnea and snoring.

For simple snoring, over-the-counter mouthpieces can help, but choosing a high-quality, UK-approved device is important.

If snoring affects your sleep quality, a mouthguard may be the right option— but always consult a dentist or sleep expert if unsure.