Can dentists help with sleep apnea using oral devices?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Yes, dentists can treat sleep apnea using custom-fitted oral appliances known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs). These mouthpieces gently reposition the lower jaw forward during sleep, helping keep the airway open to reduce snoring and breathing interruptions. Dentists trained in dental sleep medicine often work alongside physicians to diagnose and manage mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, offering a comfortable alternative to CPAP therapy.

If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, identifying the cause early is key to protecting your long-term health, sleep quality, and energy levels. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand your symptoms and confidently navigate your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover if your sleep apnea needs care Learn what causes your sleep apnea symptoms See if snoring could mean sleep apnea Find OTC options for sleep apnea symptoms Find a sleep apnea specialist nearby Understand home remedies for sleep apnea Discover if oral devices could help insomnia

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Explanation

Dentists can play an important role in helping people with sleep apnea. They use special mouthpieces called mandibular advancement devices (MADs) to help. These devices move the lower jaw forward a little bit. This helps keep the airway open when you sleep.

How it Works

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): These are like a mouthguard you wear at night. They are made to fit your mouth and help keep your airway open by moving your jaw forward.

Benefits

Easier Breathing: By keeping the airway open, you can breathe better while sleeping.
Less Snoring: Many people find that they snore less when using these devices.

Who Can Use Them?

Mild to Moderate Sleep Apnea: These devices are often used for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea.

According to the studies, these devices can be very helpful for many people. If you're experiencing symptoms like snoring, daytime fatigue, or difficulty breathing at night, you can check your symptoms with a free AI symptom checker to better understand your condition. Dentists work with doctors to decide if this is the right choice for you.

(References)

Manetta IP, Ettlin D, Sanz PM, Rocha I, & Meira E Cruz M. (2022). Mandibular advancement devices in obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep science (Sao Paulo, Brazil), 35371398.
Leibovitz S, Levi S, Hanut A, Yanko R, Sharav Y, & Haviv Y. (2025). Evaluating the effectiveness of mandibular advancement .... Sleep & breathing = Schlaf & Atmung, 39833552.
Kostrzewa-Janicka J, Śliwiński P, Wojda M, Rolski D, & Mierzwińska-Nastalska E. (2017). Mandibular Advancement Appliance for Obstructive Sleep .... Advances in experimental medicine and biology, 27826882.

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