The Dental Professional's Critical Role in Sleep Apnea Assessment

Sleep is vital for our overall health, but did you know that about 30% of the population has sleep apnea, and that 90% of people are undiagnosed.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a medical condition characterized by episodes of reduced or absent breathing during sleep.  Undiagnosed sleep apnea can reduce quality of life and raise the risk of significant medical conditions, such as strokes, hypertension, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, ADHD and sudden Cardiac death.

As a dental professional, you are a crucial component of your patient’s systemic and oral health. Research shows that more than 1/4 of patients are more likely to visit the dental office than their physician for an annual exam, which places an accountability on you to be well-informed about the oral signs that may be revealing a larger health condition.  Increasing patient access to treatment for sleep apnea and improving sleep can reduce hypertension risk, and aid in the prevention and management of chronic inflammatory diseases.

Adopting screening protocols and risk assessment for sleep apnea in the dental appointment is a significant way to impact patient health and wellness.  The screening process is simple and can be completed in a few minutes.

This course is ideal for all members of the dental team with a focus from the dental hygienist perspective on using evidence from medical history, physical/ dental examination, and sleep screening to create important conversation with your patients regarding sleep apnea and treatment.   We are on the front line of detection for sleep apnea this is an opportunity that should not be missed.

You will learn