Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is considered a chronic progressing disease affecting 15-20% of the population.  Signs of OSA include snoring, frequent awakenings, breathing difficulties, and clenching/grinding of the teeth. Symptoms of OSA include fatigue, dry mouth, headaches, and excess daytime sleepiness. Using validated sleep scales, CBCT scans and histories, Dentists can evaluate the patient’s at risk and have them complete a sleep test to determine if a patient has sleep apnea. The results of the sleep apnea test is read by a sleep physician to determine a diagnosis and treatment options. The dentist is now able to help the patient obtain better sleep.

Example of an airway scan from a CBCT