Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley CA
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can affect your overall health, mood, and quality of life. Managing it often requires a team approach, and dentists trained in dental sleep medicine play a critical role in treatment. The American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) recognize several ways dentists contribute to diagnosing and managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Screening and Identifying Sleep Apnea Risks
Dentists are uniquely positioned to detect early signs of sleep apnea during routine exams. Studies estimate that over 80% of people with sleep apnea remain undiagnosed. By screening patients for risk factors, dentists can help reduce this number.
Common indicators dentists look for include:
- Narrow jaw arches
- Retruded jaw positioning
- Enlarged tongue
- Large tonsils or uvula
- Extended soft palate
- Deviated nasal septum
Dentists may also use quick questionnaires and imaging tools to identify patients at higher risk and then refer them to a sleep physician for further evaluation.
Coordinating Diagnosis with Sleep Physicians
While dentists cannot diagnose sleep apnea, they often serve as a bridge between patients and sleep specialists. Dentists can coordinate home sleep studies, allowing patients to complete tests in the comfort of their own bed. Results are then reviewed by a physician to confirm diagnosis, making the process more accessible and convenient.
Explaining Treatment Options
Once sleep apnea is diagnosed, dentists help patients understand their treatment choices:
- CPAP Therapy: Continuous positive airway pressure remains the gold standard for treating moderate to severe sleep apnea. However, compliance can be a challenge for many patients.
- Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT): Custom oral devices are a highly effective alternative, especially for mild to moderate OSA. They reposition the jaw to keep the airway open and may be used for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP. Some FDA-cleared devices can even treat severe OSA.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Changes such as adjusting sleep positions, reducing alcohol intake, managing BMI, and increasing exercise can help improve symptoms, particularly for mild cases.
- Surgery: Surgical interventions are typically a last resort for adults, but may be recommended earlier in children.
At Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry, we enhance traditional oral appliance therapy with a precision-focused approach, using advanced diagnostics and jaw alignment principles to improve airway function while maintaining comfort and oral health.
Custom-Fitting Oral Appliances
After selecting oral appliance therapy, a dentist will evaluate candidacy by considering:
- Adequate teeth to support the device
- Healthy gums and absence of periodontal disease
- No severe jaw disorders
- Sufficient mouth opening to fit the appliance
The most effective devices, such as mandibular advancement devices, gently reposition the jaw to maintain an open airway. Some appliances also use orthodontic techniques to expand the jaw, which can significantly reduce or even eliminate sleep apnea in certain patients.
Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment
Effective management of sleep apnea doesn’t stop at appliance delivery.
Dentists monitor treatment through:
- Titration: Incremental adjustments to optimize airway support
- Follow-up sleep studies: Confirming improvements in sleep and breathing
- Annual reviews: Checking long-term effectiveness and comfort
Regular monitoring ensures that oral appliance therapy continues to work as patient needs evolve.
Managing Side Effects of CPAP and Oral Appliances
Dentists also monitor and manage oral health changes that may result from therapy:
- CPAP: Can cause dry mouth and tooth decay, and may alter dental arches over time.
- Oral Appliances: Excessive clenching or grinding can damage teeth, jaws, or the device. Dentists adjust appliances to maximize comfort while maintaining treatment effectiveness.
Finding a Qualified Sleep Dentist
If you suspect you have sleep apnea or struggle with CPAP therapy, working with a dentist trained in dental sleep medicine is essential. They can provide customized oral appliance therapy, monitor treatment outcomes, and collaborate with physicians for comprehensive care.
📍 Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry | Scotts Valley, CA
📞 (831) 438-4411
Schedule a consultation today to explore personalized sleep apnea treatments and take the first step toward better sleep, improved health, and increased energy.
