Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can have a major impact on your daily life. One of the most effective and non-invasive treatments for mild to moderate OSA is a mandibular advancement device (MAD). These oral appliances are designed to help keep your airway open while you sleep by slightly repositioning your lower jaw forward.

A mandibular advancement device works by moving the mandible (lower jaw) forward, which tightens the upper airway muscles and reduces the risk of airway collapse during sleep. This forward positioning creates more space in the airway, making it easier to breathe and minimizing the vibrations that cause snoring.

These devices are custom-fitted by dental sleep specialists to ensure comfort and effectiveness. Many people prefer a mandibular advancement device over CPAP therapy because it’s smaller, quieter, and more convenient for travel.

If you struggle with snoring or have been diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA, talk to a qualified dental sleep specialist to see if a mandibular advancement device might be the right solution for you.

How a Mandibular Advancement Device Compares to CPAP

Oral appliances are the second most commonly prescribed treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. CPAP is often recommended first due to its treatment efficacy. However, if someone is unable or unwilling to use the CPAP, then next in line is the mandibular advancement device (MAD).

It is a strong, durable, custom-built dental appliance that covers both the upper and lower teeth and is connected by a hinge—either in the front or on the side. It functions by gently moving the mandible (lower jaw) forward while you sleep. By mechanically moving and supporting the jaw, the MAD stabilizes all of the soft tissue as well—mainly the tongue and soft palate. This movement prevents collapse in the airway, thereby treating snoring and sleep apnea.

Is a Mandibular Advancement Device Effective?

Mandibular advancement devices are considered appropriate first-line therapy for the treatment of mild to moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnea by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. They have a more than 30-year track record of success. They are also appropriate for the treatment of severe sleep apnea if the patient is intolerant of CPAP.

Because CPAP works by forcing air through a mask into the airway, many patients struggle to wear the machine comfortably all night. In instances where patients are not well managed with CPAP, a dental device often comes in to save the day.

Patient Comfort and Treatment Adherence

The CPAP machine has historically had lower rates of treatment adherence—around 50%—compared to the mandibular advancement device, which people can tolerate upwards of 90% of the time due to its more compact and portable design. MADs allow more freedom to move during sleep, which many people appreciate.

While CPAP works nearly 100% of the time when used correctly, MADs are effective about 70% of the time. However, when considering both adherence and effectiveness, many experts agree that both therapies offer similar benefits to overall health and quality of life.

How to Get a Mandibular Advancement Device

First, your medical provider must diagnose and make a recommendation for treatment using either CPAP or MAD. Mandibular advancement devices must be fabricated and managed by a qualified dentist trained in sleep apnea management.

Some factors that may impact the success of an appliance include:

  • The severity of your obstructive sleep apnea
  • Your upper airway’s skeletal system
  • Body weight and neck circumference
  • Dental and gum health
  • Any additional medical conditions
  • Your personal preference

Take the Next Step Toward Better Sleep

If you are interested in learning more about a mandibular advancement device in Castle Rock or Denver, Colorado, we would be happy to schedule an appointment for you at Refresh Snoring and Sleep Apnea Center to see if it is the right treatment option for you or a loved one who has obstructive sleep apnea.