Mandibular Advancement Devices: How They Work And Who They're For

Key Takeaways:

• How They Work: Mandibular advancement devices position the lower jaw forward to help reduce airway narrowing and the tissue vibrations associated with snoring.
• Who They’re For: These devices primarily suit adults whose snoring is related to the jaw and tongue relaxing backward during sleep.
• Choosing a Device: Fit, design, safety information, intended use, and appropriate FDA regulatory status are important factors to consider.

Tired of snoring turning a peaceful bedroom into a midnight soundstage? A mandibular advancement device tackles the problem by positioning the lower jaw forward during sleep to help keep the airway open and reduce snoring.

At ZQuiet, we’ve spent more than 20 years developing simple, expert-designed snoring solutions, including our FDA-cleared mouthpiece, to help millions of people sleep more quietly.

In this piece, we’ll break down mandibular advancement devices, from their function and benefits to suitable users and key factors worth considering before choosing one.

What Is A Mandibular Advancement Device?

A mandibular advancement device is a mouthpiece worn during sleep that holds the lower jaw slightly forward, helping create more space in the airway and reduce snoring. Often called a mandibular advancement appliance or MAD, it offers a practical approach for people whose nighttime noise keeps rattling the bedroom.

Mandibular Advance Devices come in different designs, including over-the-counter and custom-fitted options made by dental professionals. While the fit and features vary, they share the same basic purpose: supporting a more open airway by keeping the jaw in a forward position during sleep.

How Do Mandibular Advancement Devices Work?

Snoring often happens when relaxed tissues in the throat vibrate as air passes through a narrowed upper airway. A mandibular advancement splint shifts the jaw forward, which also brings the tongue and connected soft tissues forward.

The mouthpiece fits over the upper and lower teeth, using its design to hold the lower jaw in a forward position throughout sleep. This positioning may reduce airway narrowing and tissue vibration, helping turn down the nighttime soundtrack.

Who Are Mandibular Advancement Devices For?

Mandibular advancement devices are primarily intended for adults whose snoring is linked to the jaw and tongue relaxing backward during sleep. They may appeal to habitual snorers looking for a simple oral device to reduce nighttime noise and give their partner’s ears a break.

A prescription MAD sleep apnea device may also be recommended by a qualified healthcare professional for certain adults diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. Over-the-counter anti-snoring mouthpieces such as ZQuiet are intended to treat snoring and should not be presented as treatments for sleep apnea.

Benefits Of Mandibular Advancement Devices

Mandibular advancement devices offer several practical benefits for adults dealing with snoring and disrupted nights.

Reduced Snoring

Keeping the jaw in a forward position may limit the airway narrowing and tissue vibration associated with snoring. Less noise can mean a calmer bedroom for the snorer and anyone sleeping within earshot.

Simple, Portable Design

These devices are compact and require little equipment, making them convenient at home or while traveling. They fit neatly into a case instead of taking up valuable space on the nightstand or in a suitcase.

Non-Surgical Option

A mandibular advancement device provides a non-surgical approach to managing snoring. For diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea, a prescription sleep apnea mandibular device may be appropriate for certain patients following evaluation and guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

Easy Nightly Routine

Once properly fitted, a mandibular advancement device becomes a straightforward part of the bedtime routine. Regular cleaning after every use also helps keep the oral appliance hygienic and ready for the next night.

How To Choose The Right Mandibular Advancement Device

Choosing a mandibular advancement device means considering fit, design, safety, and how well the product suits your snoring needs.

• Consider the Fit: A well-fitting oral mandibular advancement device should stay securely positioned without placing excessive pressure on the teeth or jaw.
• Look at the Design: Features such as adjustability, materials, airflow, and jaw mobility can affect comfort, so compare designs before settling on a nightly companion.
• Explore Other Anti-Snoring Options: Different devices address snoring in different ways, and the Tongue Retention Device guide covers another type of oral appliance worth learning about.
• Understand Your Treatment Options: For a closer look at how anti-snoring mouthpieces differ from CPAP therapy for sleep apnea, read the Snoring Mouthpiece vs CPAP guide.
• Check Safety and Quality: Choose a reputable manufacturer that provides clear safety information, care instructions, and appropriate FDA regulatory information for its device.

Final Thoughts

A mandibular advancement device can be a practical option when snoring starts getting between you and the peaceful nights you’ve been missing. The right fit can help make bedtime feel more comfortable while giving you and your partner a better chance at quieter, more restful sleep. If snoring has become a nightly frustration, finding a mouthpiece that suits your needs could be a small change that makes bedtime feel better for both of you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Mandibular Advancement Devices

How long does it take to get used to a mandibular advancement device?

Most people need several nights or a few weeks to become comfortable sleeping with the device.

How long does a mandibular advancement device last?

Its lifespan depends on the materials, frequency of use, maintenance, and the manufacturer’s replacement recommendations.

How often should a mandibular advancement device be cleaned?

Clean the device after every use according to its care instructions to help control germs, bacteria, and buildup.

Can a mandibular advancement device cause drooling?

Some users experience increased saliva or drooling at first as the mouth adjusts to the device.

Should you wear a mandibular advancement device every night?

Consistent nightly use is generally recommended for managing snoring, following the instructions provided with the specific device.

Where should you store a mandibular advancement device?

Store the clean, dry device in its recommended case away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.

Can you travel with a mandibular advancement device?

Yes, its compact size makes it convenient to pack in a protective case for trips.

Can teeth grinding damage a mandibular advancement device?

Teeth grinding may increase wear on some devices, so check them regularly for cracks, distortion, or other damage.

When should you replace a mandibular advancement device?

Replace the device according to the manufacturer’s guidance or sooner if it becomes damaged, worn, or no longer fits properly.

Can a mandibular advancement device cause dry mouth?

Some users may experience temporary dry mouth, particularly during the adjustment period. One easy solution is to combine MAD therapy with mouth tape, which prevents open mouth breathing, which is the leading cause of dry mouth.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. ZQuiet and ZQuiet Advance are over-the-counter devices designed to help reduce simple snoring; it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent obstructive sleep apnea or any other medical condition. Home Sleep Testing and the Daybreak Oral Appliance are offered through the Daybreak Company and are subject to Daybreak’s Terms and Conditions. See their full terms and conditions for The Daybreak Patient Care Guarantee. ZQuiet’s 60-Night Guarantee does not apply to Daybreak’s products and services. When you buy through our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. Personal information you share with Daybreak may be shared with ZQuiet and used in accordance with our Privacy Notice. If you experience choking, gasping, or pauses in breathing during sleep, or have concerns about sleep apnea, consult a qualified healthcare provider for evaluation and diagnosis before choosing a treatment option.