Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: a reflection on the role of dentistry in the current scientific scenario

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Finally the dentist has awaken to the fact that by being a health professional, he has as primary function to take good care of the welfare of patients. In face of this challenge, the dentist starts to understand his role in the treatment of snoring and of obstructive sleep apnea and hypopnea. OBJECTIVE: The current paper has the purpose of discussing the role of this professional in the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases, most specifically of the therapy involving inter-occlusal devices, emphasizing the importance of multidisciplinarity in the reestablishment of the quality of life of the patient

A Prospective Study of the Surgical Outcome of Simple Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), UPPP Combined With Genioglossus Advancement or Tongue Base Advancement for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome Patients With Multilevel Obstruction

“…Obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is the most prevalent sleep disorder, affecting up to one quarter of the general population, depending on gender, age and definition of OSAHS [ 1 ]. It causes significant morbidity in the patients and also associated with excessive daytime sleepiness and impairs the quality of life.…”

Role of a Dentist in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

“…1 Prevalent amidst 2-4% of middle-aged individuals, the disorder finds a higher incidence rate among men (10-20%). 1,2 This condition may be associated with cardiovascular disorders (CVD), hypertension, type II diabetes, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), immune system deficiencies, and accidents. 1 A study by Dillow et al 3 showed that a significant number of patients sought physician consultations after receiving a warning from dentists of potential diagnosis of OSA.…”

“…Success rates have been satisfactory for both mild and severe cases. 1 Oral protrusion devices (with or without expansion screw), tongue retainers, rapid maxillary expansion, and mandibular advancement splints are alternatively employed on a case-to-case basis. Though successful, oral appliances demand caution.…”

“…If administered inappropriately, this method could lead to complication such as skeletal and occlusal changes, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) deformities, musculoskeletal disorders, pain, sialorrhea, etc. 1,3 Preventive care is pivotal in OSA. It also greatly reduces the risk of subsequent systemic complications.…”

“…OSA requires a multidisciplinary approach from diagnosis to treatment planning. 1 The dentist must be a part of an interdisciplinary model involving physicians from sleep medicine, psychiatry, pulmonology, ear, nose, throat (ENT), and others to aid in early diagnosis and to collectively improve the patient's quality of life. Oral appliances, if deemed necessary must be administered with utmost care and proactively followed up.…”