The Somnofit-S Study, Explained in Simple Terms

Recently, we at SnoreLessNow took a closer look at a study published in Sleep Science that examines the effectiveness of our very own Somnofit-S Mouthguard+ in managing snoring and obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).  

Please note: the Somnofit-S is FDA-cleared only for the treatment of snoring and not for the treatment of sleep apnea.

Just as we did with our Posiform Pillow study , we wanted to break down the clinical insights behind our products to give you a clear, jargon-free understanding of the research and results.

In this overview, we’ll walk you through the key methods and findings so you can see how the Somnofit-S Mouthguard+ was evaluated and what the data says about its impact.

Understanding the methods behind a scientific study can be pretty headache-inducing at the best of times. So, we’ve broken down the process into six stages.

Researchers selected 30 adults (16 men and 14 women) with confirmed snoring and OSAHS.

All participants:

• Experienced loud snoring, daytime tiredness, and disrupted sleep

• Underwent polysomnography (PSG)  testing to confirm their condition

• Required healthy teeth and gums to use the Somnofit-S comfortably

Before trying the device, researchers took a close look at each participant’s sleep to capture a solid “before” picture for comparison. 

Here’s what they measured:

• Apnea-hypopnea index (AHI): The total number of times per hour that a person experiences apneas (complete pauses in breathing) or hypopneas (partial reductions in breathing) during sleep.

• Obstructive Apnea Index (OAI):  The number of obstructive apneas per hour. An obstructive apnea happens when the airway becomes completely blocked, stopping airflow, even though the person is still trying to breathe.

• Hypopnea Index (HI): The number of hypopneas per hour. A hypopnea is a partial blockage or reduction in airflow rather than a complete stop, which leads to shallow or reduced breathing.

• Oxygen saturation: Tracking oxygen levels throughout the night, as low oxygen is a common issue with OSA.

• Daytime sleepiness: Participants completed the  Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS)  to rate their sleepiness during everyday daytime activities.

• Snoring levels: Bed partners also weighed in, rating how loud and disruptive each person’s snoring was.
  

Next, each participant was fitted with their own Somnofit-S device, customized to their gums and teeth. 

• Initial customization: Researchers evaluated each participant’s jaw movement, adjusting the device to fit with optimal comfort and effectiveness. The device uses 50-70% of each person’s maximum jaw advancement to keep airways open without discomfort.

• Gradual adaptation: As with any new mouthguard, adjustments took time (check-ins happened every two weeks), allowing each participant to use the device each night comfortably.

Each participant was asked to wear the device for at least six hours each night, giving enough consistent use to see real results.

This is where the device was put to the test in real time. Researchers used split-night polysomnography (SNP) over one night to measure each participant’s sleep with and without the device.

• First half: Participants slept without the Somnofit-S, giving researchers a fresh look at their sleep apnea and snoring patterns.

• Second half: Halfway through the night, participants inserted the Somnofit-S and went back to sleep. This allowed researchers to see how the mouthguard immediately impacted metrics like AHI, oxygen levels, and snoring volume.

The split-night approach gave an insightful, side-by-side view of how the Somnofit-S could improve sleep quality on any given night.

Here’s the average impact the Somnofit-S had on sleep metrics (per hour):

• Snoring: Decreased from 159.95 to 32.46 events

• Complete and partial pauses in breathing:  Decreased from 22.45 to 4.63 events

• Complete airway blockage:  Decreased from 59.23 to 16.46 events

• Shallow or reduced airflow:  Decreased from 59.23 to 16.46 events 

• Oxygen levels (non-REM sleep): Increased from 89.98% to 91.39%

• Oxygen levels (REM sleep):  Increased from 89.66% to 90.91%

Basically, the Somnofit had a positive impact on every metric studied using the SNP test. That's pretty impressive if you ask us!

One night wasn’t enough to understand the Somnofit-S’s full impact, so researchers checked back with participants three months later to see if the benefits were lasting. 

They used the ESS and bed partner questionnaire a second time to track any changes over the three-month period.

According to the ESS, daytime sleepiness scores improved from 14.4 out of 24 to 6 out of 24. In this case, the lower the score, the better.

As for the questionnaire, 66% of bed partners reported a mild to moderate improvement in snoring, with a further 30% stating that snoring stopped altogether! 

Let’s break down how the Somnofit-S Anti-Snore Mouthguard+ actually helps you (and your bed partner) enjoy more peaceful nights.

The core principle behind the Somnofit-S’s design is mandibular advancement.

In simple terms, this means the device gently moves your mandible (lower jaw) forward just enough to keep your airway open.

By creating this subtle forward position, the Somnofit-S reduces the risk of your airway collapsing. This makes it easier for you to breathe and decreases snoring.

For a mouthguard to work properly, it needs to work with, not against, your toothy grin. Chances are you’re not going to use it every night if your mouth hurts just looking at it.

The Somnofit-S uses a boil-and-bite method that helps it take the exact shape of your teeth and gums. This gives it an optimal but snug fit that feels comfortable while you sleep.

All you need to do is place the mouthguard in hot water. Once it softens, bite down for the required period to mold it perfectly to the shape of your gums and teeth. If you need to make adjustments, you can remold it until it feels just right.

Snoring solutions like mouth tape or chin straps are still a dime a dozen. Sure, some of these devices are useful but they can be bulky or restrictive.

The Somnofit-S is designed with freedom of movement in mind. The patented adjustable strap allows your jaw to move freely, so you can talk, take a sip of water, or even adjust your fit without needing to remove the device.

The strap also helps distribute tension evenly across your teeth, adding an extra element of comfort while keeping the mouthguard from falling out while you sleep.

Clinically proven is a phrase that’s thrown around a lot nowadays. But in this case, the term holds true.

The Somnofit-S study demonstrates that this anti-snore mouthguard can make a real difference if you’re struggling with snoring and OSAHS by significantly reducing snoring, increasing oxygen levels, and improving your daytime alertness.

Wrap that up in a user-friendly, lightweight design, and you have the perfect anti-snoring companion that fits seamlessly into your nightly routine.

Don’t let snoring disrupt your life any longer. Reclaim restful sleep and strengthen your relationship! Visit SnoreLessNow’s website today to get your own Somnofit-S Anti-Snore Mouthguard+ and start your journey to better nights and healthier days!

The content in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical advice or concerns about snoring, sleep disorders, or related health issues.