SomnoGuard Frequently Asked Questions
Since SomnoGuard is only available by prescription there is not as much information to be found about it online as there is with snoring mouthpieces that can be ordered by anyone.
So, finding answers to some of your questions will not be as easy. This guide of common questions and answers should come in handy, whether you are a currently user or thinking about becoming one.
What is SomnoGuard made of?
The tray of SomnoGuard is made of a medical grade thermoplastic material. Biocompatible thermoplastic copolymer is added inside of the trays, which is the material that softens for you to create a custom fit.
How can I tell the difference between the top and bottom trays?
With some devices, such as ZQuiet, you can tell which end up is at a quick glance. The top and bottom trays of SomnoGuard basically look the same before fitting them. It is important that you fit the proper trays to your upper and lower jaws.
The upper tray has the guide bar, or C-bar. This is the track for the screw of the lower tray. The lower tray features a transparent hinge and an adjusting screw.
How is the lower jaw adjusted?
A screw is used to make incremental changes in the lower jaw position. The screw is made of a medical grade stainless steel material. Adjustments need to be done while the trays are disassembled. There is a scale on either side of the thread, so you can easily see the exact amount of adjustment that has been made.
Can SomnoGuard be used by someone with bruxism?
Most mouthpiece manufacturers state that there is no problem wearing the device if you grind your teeth. In fact, the products are usually believed to help protect the teeth. However, it is stated that SomnoGuard has not been designed to wear by individuals with bruxism and the manufacturer recommends seeking a specially fabricated therapeutic alternative.
Are there any side effects associated with wearing SomnoGuard?
The SomnoGuard website says that you could experience mouth dryness, hypersalivation, and TMJ and/or teeth discomfort. It is also noted that it is common for the device to fall out and, it often takes up to two weeks to adapt to the device. However, two weeks is quite a long adjustment period.
How should SomnoGuard be cleaned?
Your snoring device needs to be cleaned after every use using a soft toothbrush and a couple drops of mild dishwashing detergent. You do not want to give bacteria a chance to linger in any of the crevices. Alternately, a liquid denture cleaner can be used.
An effervescent denture product is not recommended to use on SomnoGuard. Rinse thoroughly, and allow it to air dry completely before tucking it away in its included storage case.
Can SomnoGuard be trimmed?
Compared to some devices, SomnoGuard is a bit bigger. During the fitting process, excess material can be carefully trimmed. If you are going to do any trimming, this is best done while the material is still warm and soft. Do not throw your cut pieces away.
At some point you may need to size your device again or you could find that you need just a bit more material in certain places for a snug fit. Anything you trim away can be saved, washed and heated to use later.
How many times can SomnoGuard be reheated to repeat the fitting process again?
SomnoGuard AP and SP can be refitted up to five times. SomnoGuard 3 can be refitted one to three times and AP Pro can only be fabricated in a dental lab. See my article on the Somnoguard fitting process for details.
Can I breathe through my mouth while I’m wearing SomnoGuard?
Only models with air holes allow you to breathe through your mouth while wearing them. The AP model has the largest hole out of all the models. SP has a very small hole for restricted airflow and SomnoGuard 3 does not have a hole, so you have to breathe through your nose.
