There are two types of sleep apnea oral appliances. Mandibular advancement devices (or MAD) look and fit very similarly to a mouth guard that you would wear when playing a high contact sport. MAD’s hold the lower jaw forward while you sleep, which creates more space in the air passage way. This usually holds the tongue forward, as well, which can also block the area air must travel through. Most mandibular advancement appliances are adjustable, meaning your doctor can modify it and ensure it’s as effective as it can be.
Tongue retaining mouth pieces work in much the same way, but have a small compartment that fits around the tongue. It uses suction to keep the tongue in a forward position, and prevents it from collapsing back into the airway.
Talk to our expert today if you believe a sleep apnea oral device can help you.