For certain people with snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea, a mandibular advancement device (MAD) may be a good option. If on examination via fiberoptic endoscopy you are found to have significant tongue base collapse, and you meet various other criteria such as having most of your teeth, or you do not have TMJ pain, then this device is another option besides CPAP or surgery. If you have nasal congestion or large tonsils that aggravate your breathing problem, then these conditions should be dealt with first.

Recent studies have demonstrated that these devices (regardless of which type) can significantly improve snoring and OSA. Moderate or severe cases of OSA are less likely to respond with mandibular advancement devices. It is important to note that MADs do not completely eliminate OSA. The goal is to significantly improve your sleep quality as well as your numbers based on a sleep study.

Potential side effects include dry mouth, TMJ pain, bite changes or discomfort. This is why it is important to have a dentist that specializes in this area to manage any side effects or complications that may arise.

The device is typically made by a dentist that specialized in this area. First a mold is made of your teeth, and the device is next ordered from a lab. The lower part that attaches to the jaw is gradually advanced forward in incremental steps, so that you get adjusted to the device and minimize any pain or discomfort. Once you get to a level where either your snoring diminishes and you are sleeping much better, another sleep study is performed to document objective improvement.

Pictures of some common devices are shown below: