Question
What is the dentist's role in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?
Answer
These medical professionals do more than fill cavities. Some dentists have special training in treating sleep-related breathing disorders, including sleep apnea. They can fit you with a custom fit oral device that moves your lower jaw forward, making breathing easier. Usually, a dentist will work with a board-certified sleep specialist to manage your care. The physician will oversee your treatment, while the dentist will make changes to your oral device as needed to improve your symptoms. After a dentist complete's his assessment, they can say this individual may have sleep apnea. Although the dentist cannot diagnose only by looking, the dentist may think it is good to get a sleep test, and you need to be seen by your primary care physician.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, A Team Approach to Sleep Apnea, presented by Kelvin Imo, DDS, IAOS-Diplomate Candidate.
