Mandibular Advancement Device
The most widely used type of oral appliance in dental sleep medicine — a custom-fitted device that gently positions the lower jaw forward during sleep to help maintain a more open airway.
Part of Oral Appliance Therapy with Dr. Tatiana, an AADSM Qualified Dentist
What Is a Mandibular Advancement Device?
A mandibular advancement device (MAD) is a custom-fitted oral appliance consisting of upper and lower trays that fit over your teeth. The trays are connected by a mechanism that gently advances the lower jaw (mandible) to a forward position during sleep.
By repositioning the jaw, the device helps prevent the soft tissues at the back of the throat from collapsing and narrowing the airway — which is what causes snoring and the breathing interruptions associated with obstructive sleep apnea.
Each device is designed from precise impressions of your teeth and is incrementally adjustable, so Dr. Tatiana can calibrate it to the ideal therapeutic position for your specific needs.
How a MAD Relates to Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is the broader treatment approach — it refers to using any custom oral appliance during sleep to help manage snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. A mandibular advancement device is the most common and well-studied type of oral appliance used within OAT.
When patients hear “oral appliance therapy,” the device they receive is most often a MAD. Think of OAT as the treatment category and the MAD as the specific tool.
Learn More About Oral Appliance TherapyHow a MAD Is Created & Fitted
From initial impressions to ongoing adjustments, every step is designed around precision and your comfort.
Custom Impressions
Precise digital or physical impressions of your teeth are taken to ensure the device fits your anatomy exactly.
Device Fabrication
Your MAD is professionally fabricated from medical-grade materials, with upper and lower trays connected by an adjustment mechanism.
Fitting & Titration
The device is fitted in-office and the jaw advancement is carefully calibrated to a therapeutic position that balances comfort and effectiveness.
Follow-Up Adjustments
Ongoing appointments allow fine-tuning of the advancement setting and monitoring of comfort, fit, and treatment response.
Benefits of a Mandibular Advancement Device
Precision Custom Fit
Travel-Friendly
Completely Silent
Comfortable Nightly Wear
Adjustable Over Time
Clinically Supported
Who May Be a Candidate
Patients diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
Patients who snore regularly and want a treatment option
Patients who have difficulty tolerating CPAP therapy
Patients seeking a quiet, portable sleep treatment
Patients recommended for a MAD by their physician or sleep specialist
Patients who want a custom-fitted, non-invasive approach
Frequently Asked Questions
Find Out Whether a Custom MAD Is Right for You
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Tatiana to explore whether a mandibular advancement device may be appropriate for your needs.