If I Have Severe Sleep Apnea, Can a Mandibular Advancement Splint Help?

If I Have Severe Sleep Apnea, Can a Mandibular Advancement Splint Help?

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.

When CPAP Is the Starting Point

For severe obstructive sleep apnea, CPAP is considered the most effective treatment available.¹ Because of the level of airway obstruction involved, it is typically the first option doctors recommend. It works by delivering a gentle stream of air through a mask, which keeps the airway open and helps to eliminate symptoms during sleep.

That said, a treatment only does its job when it's actually being used consistently, night after night.

What a MAS Does Differently

A mandibular advancement splint (MAS) is a custom fitted device worn in the mouth during sleep. Rather than relying on air pressure, it works mechanically by gently shifting the lower jaw into a forward position, which helps prevent the upper airway from collapsing overnight. MAS devices are recommended for snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, where they have shown similar effectiveness to CPAP.

Can It Still Help With Severe Sleep Apnea?

For people with severe obstructive sleep apnea who genuinely cannot tolerate CPAP, a MAS may still be worth considering. It may not match CPAP's level of effectiveness in more serious cases, but it is generally regarded as a better outcome than leaving sleep apnea untreated altogether. Even a reduction in the frequency of breathing disruptions overnight can have a meaningful impact on health and sleep quality.

Take the Next Step

The long-term effects of untreated sleep apnea on energy, concentration, and overall health are well documented and significant.² If CPAP hasn't been workable for you, the important thing is not to step away from treatment entirely. Speaking with a health professional can help you understand which options are appropriate for your situation and find an approach that you can actually maintain.

ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. MAS is intended to reduce or alleviate snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea treatment. To find out if CPAP or a MAS is suitable for you, speak to your doctor.

References

1. RACGP. Mandibular Devices for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. Racgp.org.au, 2018. www.racgp.org.au/clinical-resources/clinical-guidelines/handi/handi-interventions/device/mandibular-devices-for-obstructive-sleep-apnoea

2. Sleep Health Foundation. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA). Sleephealthfoundation.org.au, 2024. www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/obstructive-sleep-apnoea