Clinical Review of Commercially-Available Anti-Snoring Devices

Abstract

Snoring is a common issue that negatively affects sleep quality. Generally, simple snorers without sleep apnea may be managed with various therapeutic options such as behavioral treatments, mandibular advancement devices or surgeries, while more complicated snorers with moderate to severe sleep apnea may be managed with positive airway pressure. Recently, commercially-available devices have been widely implemented to improve snoring by widening the nasal airway or preventing mouth breathing. Nasal dilator strips are typically used as external nasal dilators, while internal nasal dilators include nasal stents, nasal clips, and nasal stimulators. Chin straps and mouth tape can be used to improve adherence to positive airway pressure, as well as to manage simple snorers with mouth breathing. However, there is a scarcity of information in literature with regard to the clinical role of these devices. Therefore, physicians should carefully consider whether these commercially-available devices can be a viable alternative management option for snoring patients. Herein, we provide literature reviews of clinically-available devices for snorers with their indication, effectiveness, and safety.