Understanding Adult and Pediatric OSA and Risk Management in Oral Appliance Therapy

by Dr. Michelle Weddle

Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders (SRBD) occur in a spectrum and the most recognized condition in this spectrum is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This presentation will discuss the implications of an OSA diagnosis in adults and children in the dental office and management of the condition and risks from a dental perspective.

At the end of this topic, participants will be able to:

• Discuss the spectrum of SDB and the requirements for an OSA diagnosis in adults and children.
• Understand why even when there is no OSA, airway issues could still be present.
• Identify the mechanism of action of various oral appliances to manage OSA and the risks and benefits associated with different types of appliances.
• Appreciate the implications of using appliances in children with OSA.
• Explore various work flows of managing this patient population with physicians.

Understanding Adult UARS and Pediatric SDB

by Dr. Stacy Ochoa

The disorders of breathing during sleep exist along a spectrum of severity. The mildest form of sleep related breathing disorders is intermittent snoring to the most severe, obstructive sleep apnea. Many times, patients are dismissed from their primary care because they do not have obstructive sleep apnea. Apnea does not predict the severity of disease. Many patients suffer consequences from fragmented and restless sleep. Diagnosing upper airway resistance can be very challenging. Many patients are untreated. While there may be no apneas, patients can still suffer from daytime fatigue, cognitive impairment, mood disturbances, impaired quality of life and much more.

‌At the end of this topic, participants will be able to:

• Recognize the signs and symptoms of upper airway resistance in children and adults
• Understand the medical guidelines and how to effective advocate for care with your medical colleagues
• Learn how to co-manage this disease with your medical team.

Dental Screening Tools and Intervention Strategies for Airway Management: Tying it All Together

by Dr. Tracey Nguyen

This presentation will provide a basic introduction to sleep related breathing disorders. In the last decade, there have been many advancements in dental intervention strategies for airway management. An evaluation of the airway is of greatest concern when treatment planning worn dentition cases and complex care. This presentation will focus on the soft and hard tissue structures that manage the pharyngeal airway space. Early detection and treatment of childhood breathing problems may reduce craniofacial risk for developing obstructive sleep disordered breathing as an adult. Treatment options should improve the airway space, reduce nasal resistance and create larger oral volume space for the tongue. In the skeletally mature patient, treatment options vary from nonsurgical and surgical options. This presentation will simplify the complexities of airway dysfunction.

At the end of this topic, participants will be able to:

• Recognize the medical and dental signs and symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Disordered Breathing.
• Become familiar with the different screening methods and be able to incorporate screening in their practices if they choose to do so.
• Explore diagnostic tools and treatment options based on age.

Incorporating Myofunctional Therapy and Preformed Appliances

by Dr. Tracey Nguyen and Dr. Michelle Weddle

Myofunctional therapy focuses on the muscles and functions of the face and mouth, particularly those involved in breathing, swallowing, speech, and facial expressions. Myofunctional therapy has been proven to be a great adjunct in the management of dysfunctional breathing, which is a risk factor of obstructive sleep apnea.

‌At the end of this topic, participants will be able to:

• What is myofunctional therapy and its significance in treating patients with sleep related breathing disorders.
• Explore our top 5 favorite exercises before and after frenectomy
• Evaluate various methods of implementation in a dental practice.