Integrating Screening for Sleep Apnea into Your Dental Practice-Screening for Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Dr. Christopher Hart discusses the importance of screening for sleep-related breathing disorders in dental practice. He acknowledges the contribution of Dr. Jeff Horwitz to the first part of the lecture. Dr. Hart shares his experience as a general dentist practicing dental sleep medicine for over a decade. He emphasizes that undiagnosed sleep-related breathing disorders, especially obstructive sleep apnea, are a common health crisis that dental professionals encounter but are often overlooked. Dr. Hart outlines the objectives of the lecture, which include equipping and empowering dental professionals to screen patients for sleep-related breathing disorders, implementing efficient screening protocols, understanding the screening and treatment differences in pediatric patients, documenting findings, and providing resources for further information. He then discusses various screening methods, including screening questionnaires, clinical examinations, and follow-up questions. Dr. Hart emphasizes the importance of a team approach in screening and referrals, involving hygienists, assistants, and business teams. He also highlights the need for referrals to dentists or orthodontists trained in dental sleep medicine, sleep physicians, and ENTs for diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Hart briefly mentions different treatment options such as oral appliance therapy, CPAP machines, surgery, and adjunct therapies. He concludes by encouraging dental professionals to advocate for their patients and promoting the understanding and awareness of sleep-related breathing disorders.

Keywords

sleep-related breathing disorders

dental practice

screening

obstructive sleep apnea

pediatric patients

screening methods

team approach