Nasal Pillows, Chin strap and mouthguard?

[Skypilot]

I used a head sweat band quite successfully last night for a chin strap.

[JJJ]

I used a head sweat band quite successfully last night for a chin strap.

Interesting idea.

[APAAW]

<snip>
All elastic will eventually lose its stretchiness, but the waistband material is serious enough that it lasts for at least a month. And it's cheap enough that I don't care if I have to replace it. And I don't have to worry about prescriptions, insurance, co-pays or endless paperwork.

Sounds like a great plan. I'll see what my household can put together, and it'll give them a good excuse for visiting their friend who works at the fabric store as well.

[robysue]

Dentist also told me that I grind my teeth and have for a very long time, even in my pre-CPAP days. Suggested I get a mouthguard, BUT the mouthguards I see seem to be so thick that my lips won't/can't close.

I've worn (custom made) night guards for TMJ/grinding problems for close to 30 years and they've ALL been thin enough to easily close my lips.

You don't want an OTC boil-and-bite guard. They are thicker and they're also not as effective if you have a serious grinding problem. Talk to your dentist about getting a custom guard made.

So, I guess I would have a leak with this type mouthguard/nasal mask???

I've been PAPing for over 3 1/2 years and I've worn nasal pillows masks the whole time with my TMJ guard in place. I've never had any serious leak problems: In the last 3 years with my PR BiPAP, I've had a grand total of 3 Official Large Leaks, the longest of which was about 10 minutes long. Most nights, my leak line is very good.

Don't remember why I picked the nasal mask and maybe a simple solution would be to get a full-face mask? I am male, but don't have facial hair, so a full face might work though I am used to the nasal pillows.

Full face masks are typically a lot less comfortable for a lot of people. They also can be more difficult to get a good seal, and hence a lot of FFM users do have serious problems with leaks. If you are NOT a mouth breather, there's no real good reason to start using a FFM mask.