Dental Management of Sleep Disorders 2022

Over the past decade, the importance of sleep medicine—especially dental sleep medicine—has increased significantly. Dentistry now plays an important role in recognizing and managing sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBDs), mainly through oral appliance therapy (OAT).

Because dentists see patients regularly, they are in a strong position to screen for sleep disorders. Sleep disorders affect an estimated 50–70 million people in the United States, yet about 80% of those at risk for sleep apnea remain undiagnosed. Studies show that most adults visit their dentist annually, making dental settings valuable for early detection. -The American Dental Association (ADA) formally recognized this role by publishing guidelines in 2017 for screening and the use of oral appliances. As a result, dentists are expected to be familiar with SRBDs and their management. -This second edition of the textbook provides a foundational and clinically applicable overview of sleep, common sleep disorders, and the dentist’s role in screening, evaluation, and treatment. It expands on the first edition, includes expert contributions, and is organized into five sections to support dental students, clinicians, and hygienists.