Mandibular Advancement Device
A mandibular advancement device (MAD) is a gadget that is inserted into the mouth before going to sleep. It holds the lower jaw (mandible) and tongue forward, away from the back of the throat, thus holding the upper airway open. Most MADs are moulded to fit over the patient’s teeth, with the upper jaw acting as a fixed platform to anchor the device as it holds the lower jaw forward. Most models of mandibular advancement devices fit entirely within the mouth.