More and more studies are showing that a large percentage of the population have Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and an even larger percentage is undiagnosed. There is no doubt that the use of the continuous positive airway pressure device (CPAP) is the gold standard for treating OSA. The problem is the extremely poor compliance rates. The Methodist Hospital System offers information regarding sleep apnea and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends oral appliances for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Sleep Dentists have developed and are using oral devices that can help to open the airway and hereby help with sleep apnea issues. Since there is such poor compliance with the CPAP machines, physicians are now becoming more aware that dentists who have special training work together with them to offer these benefits to their patients. This will lead to healthier patients. There are a number of highly trained contemporary dentists who have received training in sleep disordered breathing and neuromuscular dentistry. In fact, TMJ, occlusion (bite relationship) and sleep apnea all go hand in hand should not be overlooked. It is extremely important to note that dentists do not diagnose sleep apnea. In my practice, I work very closely with physicians and sleep labs. This collaboration is one that I think you will see more of in the future as more and more dentists and physicians recognize the value that this offers their patients. If you have any questions about CPAP alternatives, Houston, Texas, or TMJ Houston, Texas, or Dental Sleep Medicine Houston, Texas please feel to call our office, Ronald W. Konig DDS, FAGD, LVIF 713-668-2289
