Comfort
CPAP chinstrap
A soft strap that supports the jaw to help keep the mouth closed, used mainly with nasal and nasal pillow masks to reduce mouth leaks.
Why it helps
If your mouth falls open on a nasal or pillows mask, pressurized air escapes through the mouth. That shows up as high leak, a dry mouth in the morning, and sometimes worse therapy results. A chinstrap gently supports the jaw so you can stay on a smaller nasal mask instead of moving to a full face mask. Medicare covers chinstraps under code A7036, with a usual maximum of 1 per 6 months.
How to choose
Sizes vary, so measure around your head and chin per the maker's chart. Styles include a simple chin cup with a strap over the top of the head and fuller designs that also cup the back of the head. Choose a breathable, washable fabric and make sure it does not press on your mask's cushion or push the mask out of position.
A chinstrap should support the jaw, not force the mouth shut. Do not use one if you cannot breathe comfortably through your nose, for example with a cold or chronic nasal blockage; in that case a full face mask may be safer, so ask your clinician or supplier. Persistent mouth leaks or dry mouth despite a chinstrap are worth raising with your clinician.
Frequently asked questions
Does a chinstrap work for mouth breathing on CPAP?
It helps many people with mouth leaks on nasal or pillows masks. If leaks continue, a full face mask is the usual alternative to discuss with your supplier or clinician.
Does insurance cover a CPAP chinstrap?
Medicare covers chinstraps under code A7036, with a usual maximum of 1 per 6 months, when the coverage criteria for the PAP device are met. Private plans vary.
Can I use a chinstrap with a full face mask?
It is not usually needed, since a full face mask covers the mouth. Some people use one for jaw support, but check that it does not shift the mask seal.
Sources
Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error