What is a Mandibular Advancement Splint? May 20, 2026 This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be used to replace medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare team before making any changes to your sleep or health routine. What Is a Mandibular Advancement Splint? 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.1 A Small Device That Works Inside the Mouth A mandibular advancement splint, often called an MAS, is worn over your teeth while you sleep. It looks similar to a mouthguard, but its role is very different. Instead of protecting your teeth, it gently repositions your lower jaw forward to help keep your airway open.1 Because it sits inside the mouth, many people find it discreet and easy to use. It becomes part of your routine, much like brushing your teeth before bed. For example, a custom device such as the Hushd Pro Avera is designed to fit closely to your teeth for comfort and long term use.2 Custom Fitted or Simple At-Home Options Mandibular advancement splints come in different forms. Some are simple mouldable versions that you can shape at home using hot water. These can be useful as a short-term option or to trial the concept.2 For longer term use, a custom fitted device is usually recommended. These are made by a trained clinician using detailed scans of your teeth. This ensures a precise fit, better comfort, and more consistent results.2 Custom devices can also be adjusted over time to optimise how well they work. How It Keeps Your Airway Open When you fall asleep, the muscles in your throat relax. In some people, this allows the tongue and soft tissues to move backward and narrow the airway.1 This can lead to snoring or repeated interruptions in breathing.1 A mandibular advancement splint works by gently moving the lower jaw forward.2 This also brings the tongue forward, creating more space at the back of the throat. With more space for airflow, breathing becomes smoother and more stable throughout the night. Custom-made mandibular advancement splints such as the Hushd Pro Avera offer several titrations and kits come with multiple arches for the upper and lower jaw. This means that gradual adjustment of the fit, or advancement of the lower jaw forward is possible, to allow the wearer to find the most comfortable yet effective positioning. Who Is It Designed For? Mandibular advancement splints are commonly used for snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.1 They are also a good option for people who cannot tolerate CPAP or prefer a simpler and more portable solution.1 To use this type of device, you need healthy teeth and a stable jaw, as it relies on your dental structure for support. For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, mandibular advancement devices are comparable to CPAP in effectiveness.3 However, if you have symptoms beyond snoring, such as significant daytime tiredness or headaches, CPAP may still be recommended as a first option in some cases. Taking the Next Step If you regularly feel tired, wake with headaches, or have been told you snore loudly or stop breathing during sleep, it is worth looking into further. A proper assessment, often including a sleep study, can help identify the cause and guide the right treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms, speak with your doctor or a qualified sleep professional. Getting the right support can help you improve your sleep, your energy, and your overall quality of life. References 1 Manetta, Izabella Paola, et al. “Mandibular Advancement Devices in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: An Updated Review.” Sleep Science, vol. 15, 2022, pp. 398–405, https://doi.org/10.5935/1984-0063.20210032. 2 “Sleep Apnea Treatment without CPAP | Good Sleep Co Australia.” Good Sleep Co, 2026, goodsleepco.health/pages/treatment. Accessed 28 Apr. 2026. 3 “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. ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. MAS is intended to reduce or alleviate snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults. To find out if a MAS is suitable for you, speak to your doctor.
