Mandibular advancement splint

mandibular splint or mandibular advancement splint is a device worn in the mouth that is used to treat obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.

The splint treats snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea by moving the lower jaw forward slightly, which tightens the soft tissue and muscles of the upper airway to prevent obstruction of the airway during sleep. The tightening created by the device also prevents the tissues of the upper airway from vibrating as air passes over them – the most common cause of loud snoring.

Mandibular advancement splints are widely used in the United States and are beginning to be used in Britain and Israel. Where appropriate, they are considered a good therapy choice as they are non-invasive, easily reversible, quiet and generally well accepted by the patient. The focus of improvement in appliance design is in reducing bulk, permitting free jaw movement (i.e. yawning, speaking, drinking) and allowing users to breathe through their mouth (early 'welded gum shield'-type devices prevented oral breathing).

Less expensive "do it yourself" splints are also available and can provide the same benefits if fitted correctly