Snoring Appliance Continued...

Thronton Adjustable Positioners (TAPs)

Created by Dr. Keith Thornton in the mid 1990s, TAPs are considered to be on the higher end of the anti-snoring appliance spectrum, especially since some adjustments can be made by the actual snorer, and the material can be made of titanium.  The Silencer™ is a popular brand name for a TAP that is receiving some positive feedback.

TAPs, similar to MAAs (discussed above), push the lower jaw forward and thus keep the tongue from blocking the airway to the lungs (and subsequently preventing noise-causing vibration).

An interesting anti-snoring appliance that is generating some attention are palate lifters, which are sometimes called lip shields and lip lifters.  These appliances expand the palate, and thus reduce vibration in the airway. 

Some opinion suggests that there is of yet a lack of clinical evidence to determine the efficacy and suitability of palate lifters. 

However, this doesn’t mean that it’s not a potentially safe and effective solution.  As more research is done, and more snorers work with their doctor and/or dentist to access this potential solution, more quality information will become available upon which to make a decision.

CPAP is the most popular treatment for people suffering from Sleep Apnea (described earlier in this book).  Created in the 1980s, CPAP looks a bit like an oxygen mask, and helps maintain a free flowing respiration.  Individuals who have gone to sleep clinics to treat Sleep Apnea will certainly be familiar with this apparatus.

CPAP’s come in a range of sizes, and (not unlike laptop computers); some are easier to carry around than others.  However, as you can guess the lighter and more modern the CPAP, the higher the price tag.  Some people, too, are a bit reluctant to wear this kind of appliance (which looks rather intimidating to some) while they sleep.

CPAP’s also help control blood pressure during sleep, which is a very valuable benefit (on top of the ceasing or reduction of snoring).  For enhanced effectiveness, CPAP’s can sometimes be used in conjunction with other methods noted in this book, such as throat sprays, nasal strips, and humidifiers.