Do you snore, wake up tired, or feel sleepy during the day? You are not alone. Many people struggle with poor sleep because their airway gets narrow at night. In sleep and airway dentistry, we can help by using small, custom oral devices. One of the most common tools is a mandibular advancement device. It is a safe, simple way to open your airway while you sleep, so you can breathe easier and feel more rested in the morning.
What Is a Mandibular Advancement Device?
A mandibular advancement device (often called a MAD) is a mouthpiece you wear at night. It fits over your teeth, like a sports mouthguard. The device gently moves your lower jaw (mandible) a little bit forward. This small change helps keep your tongue and soft tissues from falling back and blocking your throat. With a clearer airway, air can flow more easily, which can reduce snoring and symptoms of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
When you lie down, gravity and relaxed muscles can narrow the space in your throat. If the airway collapses, you may snore, stop breathing for short moments, or wake up gasping. By holding your lower jaw slightly forward, the device supports the soft tissues, widens the airway, and helps prevent these pauses in breathing. Many patients notice quieter sleep, fewer awakenings, and more energy during the day.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may be a good candidate if you snore, have been told you stop breathing at night, or you feel tired even after a full night in bed. People with mild to moderate sleep apnea often do well with a mandibular advancement device. It can also help those who cannot get used to a CPAP machine or who want a quiet, travel-friendly option. Your dentist and, when needed, your sleep physician will review your health history and any sleep study results to make sure this treatment is right for you.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Your first visit includes a friendly talk about your sleep, your goals, and your health. We examine your teeth, jaw joints, bite, and airway. If you are a good candidate, we take digital scans or impressions of your teeth. These allow us to design a custom device that fits your mouth comfortably. When your device is ready, we show you how to put it in, take it out, and clean it. We also adjust it in small steps to find the best position for easy breathing and good comfort.
Comfort, Side Effects, and Caring For Your Device
Most people get used to the device within a week or two. Your jaw, teeth, or cheeks may feel a little sore at first, but this usually fades as your mouth adapts. Some patients notice extra saliva or brief morning bite changes. We teach you simple morning exercises to relax your jaw and help your bite feel normal again. Cleaning is easy: rinse after each use and brush it gently with a soft brush. Keep it in its case during the day and away from heat and pets.
Results and Follow-Up
Better sleep can change how you feel each day. Many patients report less snoring, deeper sleep, and improved focus. To make sure your device is working at its best, we schedule follow-up visits. We may also recommend a home sleep test or work with your sleep physician to measure results. Over time, we can fine-tune the device or replace worn parts so it keeps helping you breathe well.
Ready for Quieter, Healthier Sleep? Schedule An Appointment Today!
If snoring or poor sleep is affecting you, or someone you love, there is a gentle, proven option. A custom mandibular advancement device can help open your airway and restore restful nights without masks, noise, or tubes. Take the next step toward better sleep and brighter days.
Call us today or request an appointment online to schedule your sleep and airway consultation. We’ll answer your questions, check your airway and bite, and create a plan tailored to you. Don’t wait—your best sleep could start tonight.