Abstract

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA AND DENTISTRY

C. Anushika*, Dr. V. Nandhini M.D.S., Dr. Gayathri S.M.D.S. and
Dr. Sumathi H. Rao M.D.S.

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS) is a major public health burden, characterized by instability of upper airway during breath and also reported as independent risk factor for cardiac, neurologic, endocrine and perioperative morbidity. Despite the fact OSAS often goes off undiagnosed; we the dentists can pick out certain oral signs during regular dental recall visits. According to the concise review on OSAS 2011, orthodontic consultation is one of the recommended examinations before the surgical intervention for the treatment of OSAS. This article reviews about the significant concourse of the disease to any other systemic illness and also the precautions and investigations to be followed by the dentist when handling the OSAS patient. The dental side effect of long-term treatment with oral appliances is also highlighted.

Keywords: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, orofacial findings, orthodontic examination, side-effects.