Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person’s breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common form, is often caused by the collapse of soft tissues in the throat, leading to airway blockage. Left untreated, sleep apnea can result in excessive daytime sleepiness, high blood pressure, heart disease, and impaired cognitive function.

Dentistry plays a vital role in identifying and managing sleep apnea. Dentists are uniquely positioned to recognize the signs of OSA during routine exams, such as worn teeth from bruxism, a scalloped tongue, or a narrow airway. For patients with mild to moderate OSA or those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy, dentists can provide a custom-fitted oral appliance that repositions the lower jaw to keep the airway open during sleep. These oral appliances are effective, non-invasive, and more comfortable for many patients.

In recent years, dental sleep medicine has become an important subfield, with dentists working closely with sleep physicians to screen, refer, and co-manage patients. By integrating dental expertise into sleep health care, dentists can significantly improve patients’ quality of life and reduce the risks associated with untreated sleep apnea.