Why Shouldn’t I Use an Over the Counter “Boil and Bite” Appliance?

Over the counter appliances have several important problems when compared to custom-fitted oral appliances:

1. “Boil and bite” appliances are not adjustable so you cannot get the best result.
2. “Boil and bite” appliances may stop snoring, but will mask the underlying sleep apnea, thus allowing the health threatening problems to continue. You will think you are better, but you will not be.
3. Studies have shown that compliance with “boil and bite” appliances is poor when compared to custom appliances, thus reducing the effectiveness.
4. “Boil and bite” appliances are not nearly as comfortable as custom fitted ones, due to their poor fit. This often leads to poor compliance and poor results.
5. There is no professional supervision of a “boil and bite” appliance so the side effects go unattended, possibly resulting in permanent harm.