Adjusting to Your MAD: How Long Does It Take and What to Expect?
Dr. Peter Balacky, DDS
If you've recently started using a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or snoring, you're taking a significant step towards better sleep and overall health. While many users adjust quickly to their new device, it's essential to know what to expect during the adjustment period to ensure a smooth transition and optimal results.
The Initial Adjustment Period: What to Expect
For most people, the adjustment to a MAD is relatively quick, often within a few days to a few weeks. During this time, you might experience some minor side effects, such as:
- Increased Salivation: You may notice a bit more drooling at night. This is a common and short-lived side effect as your mouth gets used to the device. (Pro tip: you can cover your pillow with a towel for a few nights if you experience this!)
- Mild Tooth or Jaw Soreness: As your jaw adapts to the slight forward positioning, you might feel some mild soreness. This soreness usually diminishes within a few days to a week or two.
Despite these potential minor inconveniences, many users report a significant reduction or even complete cessation of snoring from the very first night. For those struggling with OSA, the improvement in sleep quality can be almost immediate.
Adjusting Your MAD for Optimal Results
While some patients see results right away, others may need to make slight adjustments to their MAD to achieve the best outcomes. These adjustments involve gradually moving the lower jaw slightly more forward. The good news is that these tweaks are easy to do at home and can make a big difference in the effectiveness of your treatment.
The adjustment period can vary depending on the individual:
- Quick Adjustments: For some, a single adjustment made a week or two into treatment may be enough.
- Gradual Adjustments: Others may need several weeks of gradual adjustments to find the most effective position.
During this period, it's crucial to monitor your symptoms. Keep an eye on whether you're snoring less, waking up more refreshed, or generally feeling like you're getting better sleep. These are good indicators that your MAD is working as intended.
Confirming Success with a Follow-Up Sleep Test
Once you've noticed improvements in your symptoms, it's time to confirm that your MAD is effectively treating your OSA or snoring. A follow-up sleep test can provide definitive evidence that your treatment is successful. This is an essential step in your treatment journey, ensuring that your MAD is providing optimal benefits and improving your sleep health.
Daybreak: Convenient At-Home Diagnosis and Treatment
At Daybreak, we understand the importance of convenience in managing your sleep health. That's why we offer a complete and convenient at-home diagnosis and treatment option for snoring and OSA. With our services, you can easily start your journey towards better sleep without the hassle of frequent in-office visits.
Our goal is to help you achieve a better quality of life through improved sleep. By providing you with the tools and support you need to adjust to your MAD, we ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible, leading to lasting results.
Sweet dreams and better health are just around the corner!