With the increase in obesity in the United States over the past 20 years there has been a corresponding increase in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Worldwide obesity has doubled since 1980. This is why there are so many sleep labs that are around us. Where does dentistry come in to play with this?
Neuromuscular Dentists and those highly trained in TMJ problems can recognize these issues as so many of them stem from the Oral Cavity. Some oral clues are:
-deficient cranio-facial anatomy
-cause: chronic mouth breathing and allergies
-facial development
Another factor that can be recognized is crowded oropharynx. This can be observed when treating patients. Obesity only compounds the problem. Unfortunately, the large majority of dentists are not trained to recognize this OSA which is a life threatening condition.
These OSA patients need help whether by the means of a CPAP or some sort of Dental Sleep Appliance.
If you have questions about Houston TMJ or Houston Dental Sleep Appliance please feel free to call our office, Ronald W. Konig DDS, FAGD, LVIF 713-668-2289