What is sleep apnea and why is my dentist asking me about it?
In 2017, the American Dental Association (ADA) adopted a position on dentistry’s role in treating sleep-breathing disorders including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Sleep-breathing disorders are “recognized as potentially serious medical conditions caused by anatomical airway collapse and altered respiratory control mechanisms,” the ADA said in a written statement to Sleep Review. Their position emphasized the importance of dentists driven screening for sleep-breathing disorders. Additionally, it explained that dentists are the medical professionals who should fabricate oral appliances for the treatment of sleep apnea. Oral appliances are an alternative to a C-PAP machine for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or who are intolerant to the C-PAP.
Our office's commitment
In our dental office, we prioritize your overall health, including sleep-related breathing disorders like sleep apnea. We can identify early signs of sleep apnea during routine exams and refer you for a proper diagnosis. We provide custom oral appliances for those who can't tolerate CPAP machines, helping you breathe easier and sleep better. Regular monitoring ensures the effectiveness of the treatment. Early detection and intervention are crucial, especially for children, to promote healthy growth and development. Your sleep health is integral to your overall well-being.
The role of dentists in managing sleep apnea involves several key responsibilities:
01. Screening and Initial Assessment
Dentists are trained to identify potential signs and symptoms of sleep apnea during routine dental exams. This includes observing physical features like enlarged tonsils, a large tongue, or a small jaw, as well as asking patients about their sleep patterns, snoring, and daytime sleepiness.
04. Follow-Up and Monitoring
Dentists play a role in the ongoing care and monitoring of patients using oral appliances. They ensure the device fits properly, make necessary adjustments, and address any discomfort or issues the patient may experience.
02. Referral to Physicians
If a dentist suspects a patient has sleep apnea, they refer the patient to a physician or sleep specialist for a formal diagnosis. This is crucial because sleep apnea is a medical condition that requires a comprehensive evaluation.
05. Collaboration in Multidisciplinary Care
Dentists collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and sleep specialists, to provide comprehensive care for patients with sleep apnea. This multidisciplinary approach helps ensure that patients receive optimal treatment and management for their condition.
03. Fabrication of Oral Appliances
For patients diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or those who cannot tolerate a C-PAP machine, dentists can create custom oral appliances. These devices, prescribed by a physician, help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw or tongue during sleep.
Have questions?
Overall, dentists contribute significantly to the detection, treatment, and management of sleep apnea, enhancing the quality of life for affected patients.​
Contact our team today to discuss available treatment options.
Call us at 706.745.7100