Being diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can prompt a lot of questions, particularly around treatment, and while CPAP is generally the first option discussed, it doesn’t suit everyone in the long run. For those in that situation, it’s worth understanding what other options exist and whether they’re appropriate for a more severe diagnosis. The answer isn’t straightforward, and it really does come down to individual circumstances.
If you snore or have been told you might have sleep apnea, you’ve probably come across mandibular advancement splints (MAS) as a treatment option. These devices work by gently holding your lower jaw forward during sleep, keeping your airway open and reducing the tissue vibration that causes snoring. What’s worth knowing is that MAS devices come in two main forms - over-the-counter boil and bite versions, and custom-fitted devices made by a sleep dentist - and there are some meaningful differences between them.
If you have been struggling with snoring, poor sleep, or obstructive sleep apnea and have decided to explore a Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS), you may be wondering what the process actually looks like. The good news is that getting started is usually simple, straightforward, and designed to help you feel supported every step of the way.
If you snore heavily or have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, you may have heard about mandibular advancement splints, also known as MAS devices. These oral appliances are becoming a popular treatment option for people looking for an alternative to CPAP therapy. But while they can work very well for the right person, they are not suitable for everyone.
Understanding whether a mandibular advancement splint is right for you starts with looking closely at your oral health and jaw condition.
If you have been told you snore loudly, feel tired during the day, or may have sleep apnea, you’re not alone. Many people live with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea without fully understanding what it means or how it is measured or treated.1 The good news is that there are effective options that can improve your sleep and how you feel each day.
If you snore, wake up feeling unrefreshed, or have been told you stop breathing during sleep, you may have come across a mandibular advancement splint. While the name sounds technical, it is actually a simple device designed to improve airflow and support better sleep. It is widely used as part of the treatment pathway for snoring and mild-moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
If you’ve been diagnosed with snoring or obstructive sleep apnea, one of the first questions you may have is - which treatment is right for me?
Two of the most common options are CPAP and a mandibular advancement splint, often called an MAS. While both aim to improve your breathing during sleep, they work in very different ways and suit different people.