Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) are non-invasive oral appliances used for treating obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). They work by repositioning the lower jaw (mandible) forward during sleep, helping to keep the airway open and reducing blockages that cause breathing interruptions.
By improving airway function, MADs significantly enhance sleep quality for individuals with mild to moderate OSA. For best results, consulting with dental sleep professionals is crucial to determine if this solution is right for your condition.
Mechanism of Mandibular Advancement Devices
MADs function by advancing the lower jaw, preventing soft tissues in the throat from collapsing and obstructing airflow. This helps reduce snoring and apnoeic episodes, ensuring better oxygen flow throughout the night.
Key Benefits of MADs:
- Non-Invasive: No need for surgery.
- Portable: Small, lightweight, and easy to travel with.
- Comfortable: Custom-fitted to ensure ease of wear.
- Effective: Reduces symptoms for mild to moderate OSA sufferers.
Feature Comparison Table:
| Feature | Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) |
| Type | Oral appliance |
| Mechanism | Moves lower jaw forward |
| Suitable for | Mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea |
| Key Benefits | Non-invasive, portable, custom-made |
Effectiveness in Sleep Apnoea Management
Research shows that MADs are highly effective in alleviating symptoms of mild to moderate OSA. They help reduce snoring and daytime fatigue by improving airflow during sleep.
For severe OSA cases, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the gold standard. However, many patients prefer MADs due to their comfort and ease of use, particularly if they struggle with CPAP compliance.
Symptom Reduction Table:
| Symptom | MADs (Mild-Moderate OSA) | CPAP (Severe OSA) |
| Snoring | Yes | Yes |
| Daytime Fatigue | Yes | Yes |
| Apnoeic Episodes | Yes (mild-moderate cases) | Yes (all cases) |
Comparing MADS With CPAP Therapy
When considering treatment options, both MADs and CPAP have their advantages. The best option depends on the severity of your condition and personal comfort.
MADs vs CPAP Comparison Table:
| Aspect | MADs | CPAP |
| Mode of Operation | Oral device moves jaw forward | Delivers continuous airflow via mask |
| Comfort | Comfortable, less intrusive | Some find the mask uncomfortable |
| Effectiveness | Best for mild-moderate OSA | Gold standard for all levels of OSA |
| Portability | Small, easy to travel with | Bulky, requires equipment |
| Patient Compliance | High | Lower due to discomfort |
While CPAP is generally more effective for severe cases of OSA, MADs provide an excellent alternative for patients who prefer a more comfortable, user-friendly option.
Customisation and Comfort for Users
One of the standout features of MADs is the high level of customisation available. Each device is tailored to fit the patient’s mouth, ensuring optimal comfort and a secure fit. This significantly improves patient compliance and long-term success.
Customisation Process:
- Consultation: A dental professional takes impressions of your teeth.
- Customisation: A bespoke MAD is created in a lab specifically for your mouth.
- Adjustment: The device can be fine-tuned for better comfort and effectiveness.
Advantages of Custom MADs:
| Benefit | Description |
| Tailored Fit | Custom-made to fit each patient’s mouth |
| Increased Comfort | Less intrusive than CPAP masks |
| Adjustable | Can be fine-tuned for individual needs |
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
As with any treatment, there are potential side effects associated with MADs. Awareness of these side effects can help in managing them effectively.
Common Side Effects:
- Jaw Discomfort: May cause soreness or discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
- Dry Mouth: Some patients experience dry mouth or excessive salivation.
- Dental Changes: In rare cases, MADs can cause tooth movement or changes in bite alignment.
Managing Side Effects:
- Regular Check-ups: Ensure the device fits correctly and hasn’t caused any dental issues.
- Adjustments: Work with your dentist to adjust the MAD for better comfort.
- Proper Maintenance: Clean and store the device according to the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent wear and bacterial growth.
Side Effects Table:
| Potential Side Effect | How to Manage |
| Jaw Discomfort | Regular adjustments with a dental professional |
| Dry Mouth | Use a mouth rinse to alleviate dryness |
| Dental Changes | Monitor and adjust the fit regularly with your dentist |
Key Takeaways
At Dental Sleep Professionals, we specialise in creating custom MADs that provide effective relief from sleep apnoea symptoms. Our team is dedicated to working with you through every step of the process, from initial consultation to ongoing support and adjustments. We prioritise your comfort and aim to help you regain restful sleep.
Mandibular Advancement Devices are an effective and non-invasive option for treating mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea. If you’re struggling with CPAP compliance or looking for a more comfortable solution, MADs might be the right choice for you.
At Dental Sleep Professionals, we are committed to helping you manage your sleep apnoea with a customised MAD. Contact us today to book a consultation and take the first step towards better sleep and improved overall health.
Dr. Joachim Ngiam is a multi-award-winning dental sleep practitioner specializing in oral appliance therapy for snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). With over 30 years of experience, he has published numerous studies in peer-reviewed journals and lectures nationally and internationally, offering effective, non-invasive treatments to improve patients’ lives.
