What is Airway Dentistry?
Airway dentistry focuses on diagnosing and treating issues related to breathing, sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The goal is to optimize airflow by addressing structural and functional problems within the oral cavity and surrounding tissues, often working in collaboration with medical professionals.
Main Procedures in Airway Dentistry
1. Comprehensive Patient Assessment
• Detailed medical and dental history with a focus on sleep and breathing symptoms.
• Screening for sleep apnea, snoring, and other airway-related issues (e.g., STOP-Bang, Epworth Sleepiness Scale).
• Review of patient-reported symptoms like fatigue, snoring, grinding, or daytime sleepiness.
• Examination of oral anatomy, including tongue posture, tonsil size, palate shape, and airway size.
2. 3D Imaging and Radiology
• Use of Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scans to assess airway anatomy and determine the extent of constriction or obstruction.
• Cephalometric X-rays to analyze jaw relationships and airway size.
• Analysis of craniofacial growth patterns that may impact airway health.
3. Digital and Manual Impressions
• Impressions to fabricate custom oral appliances for airway management.
• Scanning for precision when designing mandibular advancement devices (MADs).
4. Appliance Fitting and Adjustment
• Custom fabrication and fitting of oral appliances such as mandibular advancement devices, tongue-stabilizing devices, or nasal dilators.
• Adjustments made based on comfort and effectiveness in improving airflow.
5. Behavioral and Adjunctive Therapies
• Myofunctional therapy to strengthen oral and orofacial muscles.
• Education on lifestyle changes, such as weight management, sleep hygiene, and nasal breathing exercises.
• Collaboration with ENTs or sleep physicians for adjunctive treatments like Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP).
Related Procedures
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