Alternate Therapy For Snoring or Mild OSA
Nov 12, 2025 Danielle Lindsay

Alternate Therapy For Snoring or Mild OSA

Alternate Therapy for Snoring or Mild OSA

(Obstructive Sleep Apnoea)

SuperPharmacyPlus Sleep Study

Why Seek Alternatives?

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) remains the gold-standard for mild, moderate to severe OSA. But there are common scenarios when alternatives may be considered:


  • Newly diagnosed mild OSA patients (without significant other health concerns) for whom less invasive therapies may be appropriate.
  • Snoring itself (even without full OSA) can disturb sleep (own and partner’s) and prompt the search for simpler aids.
  • Patients who are non-compliant with CPAP (discomfort, mask issues, intolerance) and seeking a more user-friendly option.

    It’s important to emphasise: any alternative therapy should be discussed with your GP, dentist or sleep consultant (depending on device type) to ensure safety, appropriateness, and monitoring. These devices are not appropriate for moderate-severe OSA, central sleep apnoea, significant other health concerns, or when there is significant jaw or dental issues.

    Alternative Therapies Overview

    Mandibular Advancement Mouthguards

    These fit in the mouth and advance (push forward) the lower jaw (mandible) slightly, thereby enlarging the upper airway, reducing collapse/vibration of soft tissues, and reducing snoring or OSA events.

    Examples:

    • RIPsnore
    • Snore MD

    Advantages: relatively low cost, portable, no electricity, minimal equipment.

    Disadvantages: may cause jaw discomfort, dental issues, need proper fitting.

    Bongo Sleep Apnea Therapy Device

    Nasal EPAP (Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure) Devices

    The device has soft nasal seals that seal within the nasal openings, the user wears the small nasal device which, during exhalation, creates a small resistance (positive pressure) to help keep the airway open, while inhalation remains relatively free.

    Example:

    • Bongo Rx.

    Advantages: very portable, no machine/hoses/power, suitable for travel/backup, Reusable and easy to clean with simply soap and water.

    Disadvantages: needs nasal breathing, may not be effective in all patients.

    Here Are The Key Advantages To Each Device

    Devices
    Key Advantages
    RIPSnore Mouth Guard

    Simple mandibular advancement, low cost, no power/hose, good for snoring or mild airway obstruction, portable.

    Bongo Rx EPAP Device
    No machine/hose/power required, designed for mild OSA, ideal for travel/supplement, portable and convenient.
    Snore MD Device
    More refined mandibular advancement (1 mm increments), dental-grade material, mouldable at home, comfort focus.

    Practical Advice For Use

    • For MAS devices: follow the moulding instructions carefully; start with minimal jaw advancement and increase gradually until snoring/airflow improves (or according to manufacturer/dental guidance). Very beneficial for normal range AHI but where snoring occurs.
    • Use in a stable sleep environment (side-sleeping position may further help snoring/OSA)
    • For EPAP device: ensure nasal passages are clear; practise with it before travel; ensure you don’t open your mouth wide during sleep (mouth tape or chin strap may be needed if mouth-breathing is habitual).
    • Maintain healthy lifestyle adjuncts: weight loss, avoid alcohol/sedatives near bedtime, sleep on side, treat nasal congestion — these amplify any device benefit.

    Mild OSA (AHI 5-14/h, minimal other health concerns, good nasal patency, minimal jaw/mouth-breathing issues) would be good candidates for MAS or EPAP options.

    The AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index) scale is used to measure the severity of sleep apnoea. It is calculated by dividing the total number of times a person stops breathing (apnoea) or has a shallow breath (hypopnea) by the total hours of sleep they got.

    • Normal: Fewer than 5 events per hour
    • Mild: 5 to 14 events per hour
    • Moderate: 15 to 29 events per hour
    • Severe: 30 or more events per hour

    Finally...

    Alternative therapies like mandibular advancement devices (MAS) and nasal EPAP devices offer practical, portable, more user-friendly options for certain patients with snoring or mild OSA — especially for those who cannot tolerate CPAP, or need a backup when away from home. However, they are not a complete substitute for CPAP in patients with moderate to severe OSA, significant other health concerns, or those who require the full efficacy of CPAP therapy. The key is appropriate patient selection, professional assessment, and follow-up monitoring of outcomes.
    Dani CPAP & Sleep Study Services
    Nov 12, 2025 Danielle Lindsay

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