Myo Media

In this article Kelley explores the pivotal role dentists play in identifying and addressing sleep and airway issues, which are increasingly linked to serious health conditions like hypertension, diabetes, stroke, and mental health disorders. It provides valuable insights into incorporating sleep and airway screening questions into patient evaluations, recognizing physical signs of sleep disorders, and referring patients to specialists such as orofacial myofunctional therapists and sleep experts. By integrating these practices into your dental care approach, you can significantly enhance patient well-being and ensure comprehensive care that addresses both oral and systemic health concerns.

Kelley highlights a critical, yet often overlooked, connection between oral health and sleep quality, showing how dental professionals can play a vital role in identifying and addressing sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). It explains why integrating sleep assessments into routine dental visits is essential for preventing serious health risks like cardiovascular disease and dementia. By reading this article, you'll discover how simple dental evaluations can potentially save lives and improve overall health, offering a more comprehensive approach to patient care.