Sleep apnea can be one of the causes of mouth breathing since the patient may end up opening their mouths due to the need for oxygen. However, sleep apnea treatments can be a bit tricky for mouth breathers since the treatment may not be fully absorbed by the patient if they fail to use the right CPAP mask for mouth breathers.
Compared to nose breathers, mouth breathers have a more limited option for their CPAP mask. This is why we took the time to compile a list of the best CPAP masks for mouth breathers and other information that you should know about CPAP therapy for mouth breathers.
Top 5 Full Face CPAP Mask for Mouth Breathers
1. Philips Respironics DreamWear Full Face CPAP Mask
The DreamWear mask is always a dream for CPAP Patients that breathe through their mouths. Full face masks often carry a reputation of being bulky, but the Philips Respironics DreamWear Full Face CPAP Mask has a minimalist design. The DreamWear mask frame can be switched between the three types of CPAP masks by changing the cushion and the headgear.
As a full face mask, it is able to allow airflow throughout the entire frame with minimal leaks to ensure optimal results for therapy. The Philips Respironics DreamWear Full Face CPAP Mask is also able to give maximum comfort and it can be used by people with claustrophobia since the design provides a wide field of vision.
The wearability of this mask is also commendable with its magnetic clips and soft silicone frame. This allows the user to remove the headgear easily and attach it back without readjusting the fit of the mask. With its design, it is able to leave no red marks or irritation to the skin.
2. ResMed Mirage Quattro Full Face CPAP Mask
ResMed Mirage Quattro Full Face CPAP Mask holds a great reputation among CPAP patients due to its incredible seal. It is designed with a forehead pad for added support to keep the mask in place even when the patient moves freely during their sleep. The dual-wall design also keeps the mask stable since the cushion adjusts to the movement of the patient to maintain the seal.
“The ResMed Mirage Quattro is widely considered to be one of the best full face CPAP masks available today, in large part thanks to its superior seal and wide range of personalized support and fit settings. These added features allow it to provide comfortable, efficient performance for the vast majority of patients.”
Another great feature of the ResMed Mirage Quattro Full Face CPAP Mask is the Micro-Fit Dial. This feature allows the patient to try out 24 comfort settings that assist the user in finding the right fit for their face and it sets the tension to the right amount for increased stability when in use.
3. Fisher & Paykel Simplus Full Face CPAP Mask
The Fisher & Paykel Simplus Full Face CPAP Mask comes with an Ergoform Headgear that optimizes the fit for the user with its easy clip hooks and Velcro tabs. Designed with two types of stability panel, it offers security and flexibility that is uncompromised. There is also the ball and socket elbow that allows for free movement when you sleep since it prevents the dragging of the mask from the tube.
It is also ideal for patients with a higher prescribed setting as it can handle a set of up to 25 cm H20. Even with the maximum prescribed setting, this mask stays in place and remains sealed. For a mask of the same capacity, this operates quietly even with maximum intensity.
However, the Roll fit seal is what completes the package for the Fisher & Paykel Simplus Full Face CPAP Mask because it enables the patient to get maximum results from their treatment. It allows the user to move freely during the night while still keeping the airflow within the mask.
4. Innomed Aspen Full Face Mask
Innomed may not be as popular as Philips Respironics or ResMed when it comes to creating CPAP masks, but the Innomed Aspen Full Face Mask is able to provide a breath of fresh air for mouth breathers. It stays in place to ensure that the mask is the proper fit for the user with the help of the adjustable forehead pad.
Considering its price point, the performance of the Innomed Aspen Full Face Mask is commendable since it is quiet and provides excellent support. The excellent support of this mask is attributed to the chin flap that is integrated with the design. In order to get the right fit, the user can adjust the 5-point headgear easily.
5. ResMed AirFit F20 Full Face CPAP Mask
As part of the InfinitySeal product line of the ResMed brand, CPAP patients can enjoy optimal results as the ResMed AirFit F20 Full Face CPAP Mask does not leak. It is able to lock the seal of the mask even when the patient moves around during the night. This mask also allows the user to continue with their daily activities since this mask offers a wide field of view.
In terms of usability, this mask comes with Velcro tabs that allow for a secure fit. Since it is designed with a quick-release elbow, the ResMed AirFit F20 Full Face CPAP Mask can be detached easily when needed. On top of this, the satisfaction rate of this mask is also quite high, especially with the accurate sizing guide of this mask.
Why is the Full Face mask the best for mouth breathers?
Compared to nasal pillow mask and nasal mask, the full face mask is better suited for mouth breathers. As the name suggests, the nasal pillow mask and nasal mask are best suited for nose breathers since the treatment is directed toward the nose. In short, it can’t deliver treatment through the mouth, which defeats the purpose of the therapy. This is why the full face mask is more ideal if the patient is a mouth breather as the mask is able to cover the nose and the mouth.
“Full face masks are designed to cover both the mouth and nose, ensuring that no matter how your breathing changes during the night, you will continue to receive the necessary airflow. These masks are most often recommended for individuals who breathe through their mouth, including those who frequently suffer from nasal infections or have a deviated septum. Full face masks are also typically recommended for individuals who require higher pressure treatment settings, as these masks are better equipped to handle higher air pressure.” Read more: Which type of CPAP mask is best for you
CPAP MASK BUYING GUIDE
Right Fit
CPAP masks work only as well as its fit. This is because a poorly fitted mask would leak and the results would be less than optimal. In order to get the right fit, it is important to consider the users sleeping position and the size of the CPAP mask needed. People with facial hair should also be considerate of the masks that they choose, along with the proper tightness of the mask.
“It is recommended that patients are first fitted for a mask at a physical location, sleep doctor or sleep center. If you are planning on sizing yourself you may want to have a friend or family member measure too. Two exact measurements are better than one! A proper fitting mask is more important than a CPAP machine full of bells and whistles. If your mask is leaking, you are not receiving quality sleep therapy. A quality mask, in the correct size, will provide a restful sleep and a more productive tomorrow.”
Air Pressure Prescribed
Some people have worse cases of sleep apnea that it would require them to get a higher air pressure prescription. On the other hand, they are cases that are milder than the patient just needs a lower air pressure setting. Patients with higher air pressure prescriptions are better off with full face masks, but patients with lower air pressure settings can use nasal pillows or nasal masks.
“Mask choice is extremely personal and varies from person to person. One that works well for you may be a poor fit for your best friend or spouse. If you have gone through a titration study and arrived at a higher than normal pressure, talk to your doctor about the right high-pressure CPAP mask for you. You can choose between a range of models and features that can help you breathe comfortably through the night.”
Limits Mask Leak
Masks that leak would cause poor results since the patient can’t maximize their therapy. If the airflow isn’t well sealed, it could prevent the patient from getting the needed airflow during sleep. The lack of seal may also cause the mask to slip since the fit is also poor.
“A mask that leaks or doesn’t seal properly will keep you from receiving adequate airflow during the night. The leaking air can also irritate your eyes and face. Several CPAP BiPAP mask-related issues that could contribute to this problem.”