AIRWAY HEALTH: Understanding and Implementing the New Airway Imperative

As discussed in the previous blog, the issuance of a recent ADA policy statement (The Role of Dentistry in the Treatment of Sleep Related Breathing Disorders) has necessitated the expansion of our current scope when it comes to the practice of what we commonly know as “sleep dentistry.” Our priority – as detailed in the policy – is an airway-focused imperative.

Understanding sleep and airway health management today means understanding that things have changed. Initially our goal as “sleep dentists” was to provide appliance therapy and palliative care that would prove equal to or better than CPAP.

Acknowledging that both work, but neither constitutes a cure, we must move toward a new paradigm…one that embraces early screening, and early treatment in the express interest of ensuring a healthy airway, a healthy jaw joint, excellent facial aesthetics, and an occlusion that supports these goals.

Ask the question: Am I providing my patients – ALL my patients -- with the best opportunity for  optimum airway health?”

In order to provide such an opportunity, dentists and support staff must first receive the necessary education and training in the basics of Dental Sleep Medicine – specifically airway screening; getting the diagnosis; completing a thorough exam; proper appliance selection and use; appliance titration techniques; and follow-up protocols.

That will involve course study, hands-on training, structured guidance and a viable practice plan. The goal, first and foremost, is to cultivate a greater overall understanding of sleep and airway health, screening and diagnostic processes, and appropriate treatment modalities.

Once educated in and familiar with the essentials of sleep and airway, you can incorporate the following into a standard treatment protocol:

1) Screening 

2) Making the Diagnosis 

3) Discussion of Treatment Options and Team Coordination

4)  Completing a Thorough Exam

5) Appliance Selection and Delivery

6) Follow up

In our next post, as part of our multi-segment series devoted to keeping you informed, aware and up-to-date on the new directions, details, preparation and process imperatives resulting from the recent ADA Airway Health mandate, we’ll examine the finer points of each of these six procedural functions.  See you then.

Click this link for the complete text of The Role of Dentistry in the Treatment of Sleep Related Breathing Disorders.

– or visit ADA.org/sleepapnea for more information. 

SML – Your Source for All Things Airway™