Mandibular Advance Devices

Snoring is a common issue, affecting 30% of adults over the age of 30 — that’s over 37 million regular snorers in the U.S., according to the National Sleep Foundation. While the snorer may seem like the only one affected, the disruptive sounds of snoring can impact partners and family members, leading many to seek effective anti-snoring devices to restore peaceful nights.

Among the many available options, mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are the most widely used stop-snoring mouthpieces. These devices address a key cause of snoring — the vibration of soft tissues at the back of the throat due to airway narrowing or obstruction and the tongue slipping back into the throat. By gently sliding the lower jaw forward, MADs enlarge the airway and reduce air turbulence, significantly minimizing snoring.

How MADs Work

MADs function by keeping the airway open and preventing the tongue from slipping backward while you sleep. This is achieved by placing the lower jaw in a slightly forward position, creating tension that shifts the tongue base forward. This positioning prevents airway blockage, reducing the factors that contribute to snoring.

While many MADs look similar, their mechanisms differ. Traditional designs mechanically attach the upper and lower trays in fixed positions using screws or interlocking components. These devices can force your mouth into a rigid position, which may feel unnatural or restrictive.

However, ZQuiet MADs take a different approach with their Living Hinge™ technology, offering flexibility and comfort:

• The hinged design allows natural jaw movement, letting you open and close your mouth while wearing the device.
• This adaptability promotes a better user experience without compromising effectiveness.

Preparation Options for MADs

Getting an MAD ready for use typically involves two types of preparation:

1. Boil-and-Bite Mouthpieces:
• These devices require boiling to soften the material, followed by biting into it to mold the mouthpiece to your teeth.
• While this customization ensures a snug fit, the process is irreversible if mis-molded, potentially resulting in discomfort or reduced efficacy.
• Boil-and-bite designs are often bulky and typically restrict jaw movement. One exception to this is the ZQuiet Advance mouthpiece.  
2. Ready-to-Use Mouthpieces:
• These devices are adjustable straight out of the box without boiling or molding.
• Users may need a trial-and-error process to determine the ideal jaw adjustment setting.

ZQuiet Comfort Mouthpiece simplifies the process:

• It comes with two pre-sized mouthpieces, providing instant results without any customization steps.
• The first mouthpiece advances the jaw by 2mm for moderate snoring.
• The second mouthpiece offers a 6mm adjustment for individuals requiring more pronounced jaw advancement.