What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a medical condition in which the person with the condition stops breathing intermittently during sleep. This interruption in breathing can last from a few seconds to several minutes and can occur several times during the night. Although sleep apnea is a breathing disorder, dentists can play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. Most people with sleep apnea suffer from loud and persistent snoring, which can be an indication that something is obstructing the upper airway. Dentists can examine the patient’s mouth for signs of airway obstruction, such as the size and position of the jaw and tongue, the shape of the soft palate, and the presence of excess tissue in the throat. They can also assess the quality of the bite and the degree of tooth wear, which can be indicative of chronic mouth breathing and poor jaw position.
Sleep specialist
If sleep apnea is suspected, the dentist may refer the patient to a sleep specialist for a more complete evaluation. The specialist may recommend a number of treatments, which may include CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy, surgery, or custom oral devices such as mandibular advancement splints. Mandibular advancement splints are oral devices that fit into the patient’s mouth and help keep the airway open by advancing the jaw and tongue. These devices are effective in treating mild to moderate sleep apnea and are more comfortable and less restrictive than CPAP devices. In summary, dentists can play an important role in the detection and treatment of sleep apnea. Patients who snore loudly, have poor sleep quality, or exhibit symptoms of excessive daytime fatigue should consider having a dental exam to rule out the possibility of sleep apnea. If the diagnosis is confirmed, the sleep specialist and dentist can work together to determine the best treatment for each patient.
