A mandibular splint or mandibular advancement splint is a small plastic device worn in the mouth that may be used for correcting jaw and tooth problems, or for improving the quality of sleep by reducing some types of snoring or sleep apnea.

If the snoring is caused by the base of the tongue, the splint will push the mandible (lower jaw) forward, helping keep the tongue clear of the pharynx (the back of the throat). This is an alternative treatment to a positive pressure mask.

The splints are also sometimes used for treatment of Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

Mandibular advancement splints are widely used in the United States and are beginning to be used in Britain. Where appropriate, they are considered a good therapy choice as they are non-invasive, easily reversible, quiet and generally accepted by the patients.

References

• Mandibular Advancement Splints (Queen Victoria Hospital Sleep Studies Unit)

Dental equipment | Sleep disorders