Obstructive Sleep Apnea - What every dentist needs to know

Abstract (Conference Speaker Bios at the end...)
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent yet underdiagnosed disorder that compromises systemic health and quality of life in both children and adults. Dentists are in a unique position to recognize subtle clinical indicators of OSA during routine oral examinations, making them essential contributors to early detection and patient advocacy. This presentation will define OSA, review its pathophysiology and prevalence, and explore the varied manifestations in pediatric and adult patients. Particular emphasis will be placed on the dentist’s role in screening, education, and interdisciplinary collaboration, as well as on the potential for dental interventions to support airway health. By equipping dental professionals with the knowledge to identify risk factors and initiate timely referrals, this session aims to enhance awareness, improve patient outcomes, and underscore dentistry’s role in comprehensive healthcare.

 Materials & Methods
This in-person, interactive session will be delivered through a PowerPoint presentation incorporating case examples, audience participation, and guided discussion. Clinical images, patient scenarios, and evidence-based research will be used to engage attendees and reinforce recognition of key signs and symptoms.

Results
Participants will gain practical tools to identify sleep-disordered breathing patterns in both pediatric and adult populations. They will leave with a structured approach for incorporating OSA screening questions and airway evaluations into routine dental visits, as well as strategies for initiating interdisciplinary collaboration with sleep physicians and other healthcare providers.

Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to:

1. Clearly define OSA and explain its relevance to systemic health.
2. Recognize signs and symptoms of OSA in both pediatric and adult patients.
3. Apply practical screening strategies during dental examinations.
4. Communicate effectively with patients and collaborate with medical professionals for referral and management.

Conclusion
Early recognition of OSA is critical to preventing long-term health consequences. Dentists, by virtue of their ongoing patient relationships and frequent examinations of the orofacial complex, are strategically positioned to serve as first-line advocates in the identification of OSA. Integrating screening into routine practice not only improves patient care but also strengthens dentistry’s role as a vital partner in comprehensive, collaborative health management.