What Is A Tongue Stabilizing Device?
Are you tired of dealing with the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), such as daytime sleepiness, snoring, and interrupted sleep? You’re not alone. Millions of people suffer from OSA, and it can have a significant impact on their quality of life. Fortunately, there are treatment options available, and one of the most promising is the use of a tongue stabilizing device. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits and effectiveness of these devices, specifically the tongue stabilizing device, in treating sleep apnea, as well as how to properly use them to achieve the best results.
Key Takeaways
A tongue stabilizing device (TSD) is a type of anti-snoring apparatus designed to help alleviate snoring by holding the tongue in a forward position during sleep, which helps to keep the airway open. They have been proven effective in treating the condition with success rates up to 71%, but fitting and adjusting correctly is essential for optimal performance. It is important to seek professional help when using a tongue stabilizing device, as potential side effects may occur depending on individual needs.
Understanding Tongue Stabilizing Devices
Designed to mitigate snoring and other sleep-related breathing problems like obstructive sleep apnea, tongue stabilizing devices are a type of medical device. Composed of soft, medical-grade silicone, these devices fit comfortably over the tongue and are held in place with gentle negative suction. They work by holding the tongue forward, preventing it from collapsing into the airway and obstructing breathing during sleep. We've reviewed the best tongue stabilizing devices, some of which combine both tongue stabilizing and jaw advancement together. There are several types of anti-snoring devices available in the market, including tongue stabilizing devices, each with its own unique design and features. Some of the most popular devices include the Good Morning Snore Solution and the Nose Breathe Tongue Positioner. These devices vary in terms of material, design, and mechanism of action, but all share the common goal of helping individuals with sleep apnea breathe more easily during sleep.
The Science Behind Tongue Stabilizing Devices
Tongue stabilizing devices work by utilizing negative air pressure to hold the tongue forward and create more space in the back of the throat. This prevents the tongue from collapsing into the airway, which is a common cause of sleep apnea. The devices are designed to fit comfortably in the mouth and create a seal around the tongue, ensuring that it remains in a forward position throughout the night. Studies indicate the effectiveness of tongue stabilizing devices in treating sleep apnea.
Key Findings
The devices were successful in 71% of cases, making them a viable treatment option for patients with mild to severe sleep apnea. The devices were found to reduce subjective estimations of snoring by 68%, making them an effective treatment for sleep-related breathing disorders. Tongue stabilizing devices demonstrated a comparable improvement in daytime symptoms to that observed with mandibular advancement devices (MAD), which are a type of oral appliance therapy. However, bear in mind that the success rate of tongue stabilizing devices may fluctuate with variables like sleep apnea severity, the existence of other sleep-related breathing disorders, and individual device tolerance. In some cases, the effectiveness of the device may be reduced if it does not properly fit the individual’s mouth or if they have difficulty tolerating the sensation of the device. Therefore, it is essential to work with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment option for your specific needs.
Types of Tongue Stabilizing Devices
As mentioned earlier, there are several types of tongue stabilizing devices available in the market, each with its own unique design and features. Some of the most popular devices include the Good Morning Snore Solution and the Nose Breathe Tongue Positioner. These devices vary in terms of material, design, and mechanism of action, but all share the common goal of helping individuals with sleep apnea breathe more easily during sleep.
