Mandibular advancement splint 1641498 225340137 2008-07-13T04:41:12Z SmackBot 433328 Date the maintenance tags or general fixes {{Refimprove|date=August 2007}} [[Image:Mandibular advancement splint.jpg|right|thumb|250px|'''A mandibular advancement splint for treatment of [[sleep apnea]].''']] A '''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 [[UK|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 "[[DIY|do it yourself]]" splints are also available and can provide the same benefits if fitted correctly.{{Fact|date=July 2008}} ==Notes== {{reflist}} ==References== * [http://www.sleep-apnoea-trust.org/ Sleep Apnoea Trust Association - United Kingdom] * [http://www.dentalsleepmed.org.uk/ The British Society of Dental Sleep Medicine] [[Category:Dental equipment]] [[Category:Sleep disorders]] [[Category:Mandible]] [[he:התקן לקידום הלסת]]