Dental Sleep Medicine

Abstract

Dental sleep medicine involves the use of oral appliances (OAs) designed to prevent retroglossal collapse in sleep-related
breathing disorder (SRBD) in which there is partial or complete blockage of the airway during sleep. Although little or no
air is flowing, the person continues to attempt to breathe. The cessations in breathing last for >10 s/episode, but can also last
over a minute and frequently occur multiple times during sleep which leads to deprived sleep quality and a drop in blood
oxygenation levels over a prolonged period. Dental sleep medicines involve various OAs include mandibular advancement
devices, TRD, and membrane funnel oral shields. These devices are used primarily in patients with SRBD such as mild-tomoderate
obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) intolerant OSA, and primary snorers.
OA is preferred by patients as compared to CPAP even though they are partially effective. Although the effect is lesser as
compared to CPAP, the improvement in sleepiness, blood pressure, and overall quality of life is similar. Dental sleep medicine
offers a better treatment modality in patients with SRBD, as the primary treatment option.
Key words: Obstructive sleep apnea, sleep medicine, sleep-related disorder