THE SCIENCE BEHIND AIRWAAV
AIRWAAV’s commitment to excellence is evidenced by its foundation on peer-reviewed research conducted over years, with Dr. Dena Garner at the helm of its athletic performance innovation.
Researcher - Dr. Dena Garner
Dr. Dena Garner is a full-time professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance, is the Director of Undergraduate Research and is the Assistant Provost for Research and Policy at The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. She started working at The Citadel in 2004 while completing her post-doctoral fellowship in the Department of Neurology at the Medical University of South Carolina, also located in Charleston. Before her move to Charleston, she worked at Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon where she also received her doctoral degree in exercise physiology.
She received her Master’s degree from the University of South Carolina in exercise physiology and an undergraduate degree from Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina.
PEER-REVIEWED PUBLISHED RESEARCH
Often-times sporting goods companies conduct research and test their products. But few, if any, have peer-reviewed, published research to support their claims. What’s the difference?
Any company can conduct a research study. However, peer-reviewed and published requires an accredited board of doctors, researchers, and/or scientists at reputable research or medical journals to thoroughly review the study, methodology, and results and then publish in confidence those findings have been scientifically proven.
FOLLOWING IS A COLLECTION OF STUDIES RELATED TO THE AIRWAAV MOUTHPIECE
The Effects of Jaw Clenching and Mouthpiece Use on Bat Swing Velocity in Division II Athletes
Allen, C., & Garner, D. P. (2024). The effects of jaw clenching and mouthpiece use on bat swing velocity in Division II athletes. Journal of Sports Sciences, 42(9), 763–768.
Read Article
Respiratory Outcomes With the Use of a Lower Custom Fit Genioglossal-Affecting Oral Appliance
Clinical and Experimental Dental Research, September 2019
D.P. Garner and Jensine Lamira
REVIEW LINK HERE
Mouthpiece Use During Heavy Resistance Exercise Affects Serum Cortisol and Lactate
Cogent Medicine, November 2017
W.D. Dudgeon, L.A. Buchanan, A.E. Strickland, T.P. Scheett and D.P. Garner
REVIEW LINK HERE
A Comparative Study and Review of Research Related to Oral Appliances and Athletic Performance: Understanding the Physiological Impacts
Jacobs Journal of Sports Medicine, October 2016
D.P. Garner
REVIEW LINK HERE
Effects of various mouthpieces on respiratory physiology during steady-state exercise in college-aged subjects
Academy of General Dentistry, June 2015
D.P. Garner
REVIEW LINK HERE
The Effects of Mouthpiece Use on Cortisol Levels During an Intense Bout of Resistance Exercise
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 2011
D.P. Garner, W.D. Dudgeon, E. McDivitt
REVIEW LINK HERE
ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Optimizing Sleep Through Airway Positioning for Athletes
Garner, D. P. (2025). Optimizing sleep through airway positioning for athletes: Insights from a clinical evaluation of a lower performance mouthpiece. Published by AIRWAAV.
Read Article
Oral Appliances and Athletic Performance
Garner, D.P. 2018. Oral Appliances and Athletic Performance. In M. Roettger (Ed.), Modern Sports Dentistry (pp. 195-212). New York, New York: Springer Nature Publishing
REVIEW LINK HERE
LISTEN TO THE PODCAST
FASTER Podcast: Unlocking Breath Efficiency for Endurance Athletes
Discover the untold story behind athletic excellence with Dr. Dena Garner on the FASTER Podcast by FLO Cycling. From initial skepticism to undeniable results, uncover how AIRWAAV lowers respiration rate, cortisol levels, and lactate levels to improve performance.
The Greg Bennett Show: How the AIRWAAV Mouthpiece Optimizes Recovery for Triathletes
Join the conversation as Dr. Garner shares exclusive insights into the past, present, and future of AIRWAAV. Explore how AIRWAAV is reshaping recovery with “Dr. Dena Garner - How a Mouthpiece Can Change Your Recovery” episode.
Move Fast Lift Heavy Podcast: Developing the Technology Behind AIRWAAV
Embark on a journey of innovation with Dr Dena Garner as she breaks down optimization and perceived exertion on the MFVH Podcast episode, “Dr Dena Garner - helping to develop the technology behind the AIRWAAV mouthpiece.”
On the AIR Podcast: Understanding the Science Behind AIRWAAV
In episode 001, “Understanding the science behind AIRWAAV with Dr. Dena Garner,” we dive into all details surrounding AIRWAAV’s performance benefits, research study results, and frequently asked questions.
Runners’ Connect: Simplifying Performance Enhancement with Low-Tech Solutions
“How a low-tech device improves performance and recovery” with Dr. Dena explores the neurobiology of running, the role of cortisol in exercise, and the intricacies of lactate production. AIRWAAV’s innovative technology is reshaping athletic performance and potentially applications outside of exercise.
" I have other tools to help recover and perform, but none of them are on the competition floor other than the AIRWAAV. "
RICH FRONING
10X CROSSFIT GAMES CHAMPION
As seen in
Frequently asked questions
I'm a first-time user, what should I know?
As a newcomer to the AIRWAAV Mouthpiece, it's understandable that you might need some time to get accustomed to it. Begin by precisely following the molding instructions provided. Afterward, we recommend utilizing our detailed implementation guide found on our fitting & usage page to gradually integrate the mouthpiece into your routine. A proven method to quickly adapt to the mouthpiece involves frequent early use. Try wearing it during everyday activities, such as household chores or walks. This consistent use helps your brain become accustomed to the mouthpiece faster, enhancing comfort and allowing you to experience its benefits sooner during physical activities.
How is AIRWAAV different from others on the market?
The AIRWAAV Performance Mouthpiece stands out due to its 15 years of dedicated research and development, underpinned by peer-reviewed studies confirming its effectiveness. It holds a unique patent and supports both strength and conditioning, alongside enhancing recovery by reducing bodily strain and lowering cortisol levels.
How long does AIRWAAV last?
Typically, AIRWAAV lasts between 6-9 months, with the possibility of extending up to a year, depending on how often it's used and the user's clenching habits.
What material is AIRWAAV made of?
AIRWAAV is crafted from a patented, BPA-free, and hydrophobic material designed tosnugly fit your mouth by slightly shrinking after the heating and molding process.
Do I use the device for training or competition?
The AIRWAAV is designed to enhance your training across any sport, but it doesn’t offerteeth protection for contact sports. For non-contact sports, using AIRWAAV in bothtraining and competition is recommended to potentially improve performance levels.
Can I wear AIRWAAV with braces?
Yes. If you have braces, we recommend the AIRWAAV Performance PX1 model. The wider bite channel will fit better with braces.
How do I clean the mouthpiece?
Clean your mouthpiece and its case by rinsing under running water, applying 3 pumpsof AIRWAAV Mouthpiece Cleaner, and letting them air dry for at least 60 seconds. We suggest cleaning at least once a week. For more on our Mouthpiece Cleaner, [click here].
What if the mouthpiece is too large for my mouth?
If the mouthpiece feels too large, you can carefully trim the ends with scissors for a better fit.
If I trim the AIRWAAV, will it still work as intended?
Yes, trimming the ends to adjust the fit will not affect its performance.
Is there a dental warranty on this device?
Every AIRWAAV Performance Mouthpiece comes with a replacement guarantee. Should you be dissatisfied, we offer a free replacement within one year of purchase. While AIRWAAV includes a warranty against product defects, it doesn’t come with a traditional dental warranty like those for athletic mouth guards, as it’s not designed for contact sports protection.
What is AIRWAAV’s point-of-view on mouth breathing vs. nasal breathing whilewearing the mouthpiece?
AIRWAAV enhances airflow in the pharyngeal area, benefiting both nasal and mouth breathing. We recommend inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth during less intense exercises, with a shift to mouth breathing as intensity increases.
How do I fit the AIRWAAV mouthpiece?
For fitting instructions for each AIRWAAV mouthpiece model, [click here].
How do I use the AIRWAAV Mouthpiece?
For usage instructions for each AIRWAAV mouthpiece model, [click here].
Where do I put my tongue?
For users of the Performance Mouthpiece, position your tongue forward beneath the front intake bar, which is located just behind your teeth. Ensure that your tongue rests below this bar, not on top of it. If you're using the Recovery Mouthpiece, there's no need to position your tongue under the front intake bar. Allow your tongue to naturally advance forward. For many users, the tongue will naturally press against the roof of the mouth during sleep, and this is perfectly acceptable.
Can I wear it during contact sports?
The AIRWAAV Mouthpiece is not intended to serve as protective gear against impacts encountered in contact sports. For such activities, we advise opting for a protective mouthguard specifically designed for impact protection. Our recommended brand is Game On Mouthguards, which is recognized by the American Dental Association for its protective qualities. The AIRWAAV Mouthpiece is best suited for training scenarios for athletes engaged in contact sports, to ensure they are training at their highest potential.
When did AIRWAAV launch?
AIRWAAV was introduced in 2020, building on mouthpiece technology developed since the early 2000s.