A mandibular advancement device (MAD) is a solution for snoring and sleep apnea. Custom MADs are a convenient, immediate, non-invasive treatment option to improve airway and reduce vibration (snoring) and airway closures (apneas).
For people with obstructive sleep apnea, MADs can be a more comfortable and less invasive treatment option than CPAP therapy.
What is MAD?
- Two mouthpieces that fit onto your upper and lower teeth, and mechanisms such as hinges, rods, or elastic bands to adjust the advancement level.
- Retainer-like devices only need to be worn when you sleep. Most designs are easy to still speak and drink water if you should get up at night.
How Does MAD Work?
- MADs physically move the lower jaw (mandible) forward relative to upper jaw (maxilla) in ordered to widen the airway to prevent closure.
- This makes it less likely that the air rippling through the partially closed airway causing snoring resulting in your breathing flows more easily.
- Most MADs are adjustable, allowing you to change the advancement level of your lower jaw in 1-millimeter increments.