Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD)
For half of all people, the night is far from quiet: around 60 percent of men and 40 percent of women snore occasionally, creating a disruptive noise that robs not only themselves but also their loved ones of restorative sleep. Both the frequency and intensity increase with age, turning snoring into a serious health and quality-of-life issue. A mandibular advancement device can not only reduce the disruptive noise of snoring effectively but also treat underlying conditions such as sleep apnea.
What is a mandibular advancement device (MAD)?
A mandibular advancement device, also known as a mandibular protrusion splint (MAD), is a custom-made medical appliance worn in the mouth at night. It is one of the most established methods for treating snoring and breathing pauses, offering a gentle, non-invasive solution for mild to moderate sleep apnea.
The device gently shifts the lower jaw forward during sleep. This keeps the airways open, reduces snoring, and prevents nighttime breathing interruptions. Unlike a CPAP mask, the mandibular advancement device is small, comfortable, and discreet, making it easy to use in everyday life as well as while traveling.
Duration of treatment
Lifetime
Fit for everyday life
Immediately
Follow-up treatment
Initially regular check-ups
Hospital stay
Four sessions until the splint is fully established and optimally adjusted.
Frequently asked questions about MADs
How effective are mandibular advancement devices?
A custom-fitted MAD is a proven therapy for snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea. In 80 to 90 percent of patients, it significantly reduces snoring, prevents breathing pauses, and noticeably improves sleep quality.
What side effects can occur?
In the first few nights, some patients experience mild jaw tension or a slightly altered bite sensation in the morning. These side effects are usually temporary and often disappear after just a few nights.
Can you still snore with a dental device?
Yes, in rare cases snoring can persist despite the device, especially if other factors such as excess weight, alcohol consumption, or nasal obstruction are present. However, most patients experience a significant reduction or even complete resolution of their symptoms.
Which is better, CPAP or a mandibular advancement device?
The CPAP mask remains the gold standard for treating severe sleep apnea, as it keeps the airways open by providing continuous airflow. A mandibular advancement device is often perceived as less restrictive and more comfortable, making it a suitable solution for snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea. Which treatment is best depends on the severity of the condition and the individual patient’s needs.
When is a mandibular advancement device recommended?
MADs are particularly suitable for people who suffer from regular snoring or mild to moderate sleep apnea. They not only reduce noise significantly but also prevent the typical breathing pauses of sleep apnea, which can otherwise pose serious health risks. Only in cases of severe sleep apnea is a more extensive treatment required.
Even supposedly “harmless” snoring can significantly impair sleep quality for both the affected person and their loved ones. When restorative rest is lacking for a long time, the result can be daytime exhaustion, poor concentration and performance, and a reduced quality of life. That is why we recommend considering a device not only once sleep apnea has been diagnosed, but already if your snoring is disturbing your own sleep or that of your partner.
Advantages of mandibular advancement devices (MADs)
MADs are considered one of the most effective non-invasive methods for snoring and sleep apnea and have proven highly practical for everyday use.
- Efficacy: They reduce snoring in about 80 to 90 percent of patients. By keeping the airways open, they also effectively treat mild to moderate sleep apnea.
- High wearing comfort: Compared to CPAP masks, they are much smaller, lighter, and easier to tolerate.
- Non-invasive: In many cases, surgery is not required. MADs achieve excellent results without an operation, especially in mild to moderate cases.
- Cost efficiency: Compared to other therapies, costs are moderate and, in the case of a medical diagnosis, are covered by health insurance.
- Improved sleep quality: Better sleep means better life. By reducing nighttime noise and improving oxygen supply, MADs restore both nightly recovery and daily wellbeing.
Treatment process with mandibular advancement devices
We begin with a detailed consultation to discuss your symptoms and complaints. If you report daytime sleepiness or signs of obstructive sleep apnea, a polygraphy in the sleep lab is carried out to establish an accurate diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.
If a mandibular advancement device proves suitable, further evaluation and treatment take place in collaboration with our partner, the SailerClinic. There, your jaw joints and dental status are assessed. Based on an impression of your teeth, the device is then manufactured in a specialized dental laboratory. Since not every device works equally well, we cooperate exclusively with leading manufacturers. This ensures that your individual anatomy is taken into account for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
At the first fitting, we check the position of the device and make small adjustments if necessary to ensure a perfect fit. Follow-up appointments allow us to confirm that the device remains effective and comfortable. During the initial adjustment phase, minor jaw tension may occur, but these symptoms usually resolve quickly. Improvements in snoring and nighttime oxygen levels, on the other hand, are noticeable immediately, meaning you can look forward to a more restorative night’s sleep right away.
Do you suffer from nightly breathing pauses, or is your snoring affecting your sleep or that of your loved ones? A mandibular advancement device provides effective, non-invasive, and discreet relief. Book your consultation today!
Team of Experts
Prof. Dr. Dr. Tateyuki Iizuka
Specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Do you have any questions? Contact us!
Our sleep lab team is here to help — reach out with your questions and get expert guidance for better sleep.
"Sleep is to the whole man what winding up is to the clock."
Arthur Schopenhauer
