A chin strap is a device that can be used as a supplementary treatment for sleep apnea or possibly stand alone therapy for mild sleep apnea, particularly for individuals who experience mouth breathing during sleep. While it is not considered a primary treatment, it can help in specific cases.

The primary goal of using a chin strap for sleep apnea is to prevent mouth breathing and promote nasal breathing throughout the night. By keeping the mouth closed, with the tongue “sandwiched” between the top of the mouth and base of the mouth, the chin strap aims to reduce the propensity of tongue falling backwards and obstructing the upper airway.

Here's how a chin strap may potentially help with sleep apnea

• Encourages nasal breathing: Nasal breathing is generally more beneficial than mouth breathing during sleep because it helps filter, warm, and humidify the inhaled air. It also promotes better airflow through the nasal passages, reducing the risk of obstruction or collapse in the upper airway.
• Enhances effectiveness of other treatments: For individuals using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, a chin strap can help keep the mouth closed, preventing air leakage that can occur if the individual breathes through their mouth while wearing the CPAP mask. This can improve the effectiveness of the CPAP treatment in maintaining a stable airway pressure.  Studies have also shown better CPAP compliance with use of chin strap.
• Reduces snoring: Mouth breathing often contributes to snoring. By holding the mouth closed, a chin strap can help reduce snoring, which is a common symptom of sleep apnea.

How to test the efficacy of a Chin Strap

If the chin strap is working for you, you should notice a few things:

1. Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI) should come down to some extent.  This suggests there are fewer pauses in breathing, therefore your breathing during sleep is healthier
2. If you use this with CPAP due to excessive air leak from the mouth openings, you should note less air leak and a more normal AHI.
3. You should notice an improvement in overall sleep quality, displayed as SQI.

It's important to note that the effectiveness of a chin strap can vary depending on the individual and the specific characteristics of their sleep apnea. A chin strap may not be suitable or effective for everyone, and it is always advisable to consult with your empowered sleep care team if you have any questions.

Resources

PMID: 15165532 ;  DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2003.11.00

PMID: 36141367 ; DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.3608