Diagnosing and Treating Airway Disorders

Help your patients see the importance of airway health

At times, we all encounter moments when we realize we weren't seeing ourselves or our health clearly. Take, for example, the patient who learns about their snoring only from a partner's comments. Self-awareness, in this scenario, is often limited to rare instances of waking oneself from loud snoring. Snoring is frequently dismissed as normal due to its prevalence but should not be overlooked as it is often associated with sleep apnea or sleep disordered breathing. Identifying signs of airway compromise requires patience and a thoughtful approach. Your patients will thank you for opening their eyes to the root causes of airway related oral and health problems they may be struggling with.

Risk factors that suggest the necessity of a sleep screening include:

Wear patterns on the teeth
Linea alba (cheek lines)
Tongue Scalloping
Mouth and jaw size/ position
Observable breathing patterns
Tongue function

Discussions

Discussing these signs with patients and gently guiding them to recognize potential airway issues is crucial. An overnight sleep screening can provide invaluable insights, helping patients understand their sleep quality and the urgency of addressing any concerns. Effective treatment can resolve crowding, relieve TMJ stress, alleviate pain, reduce tooth grinding and clenching, and improve breathing and sleep quality.

Considerations for Treatment Evaluation

Number and health of the teeth
Presence of implants
Gum health or existence of gum disease

Incorporating an oral evaluation and a sleep screening form into regular dental exams can seamlessly introduce this critical assessment. Highlighting observable signs of airway concern initiates the conversation, aiding patients in connecting the dots. While comprehensive understanding may require another visit, planting the initial seeds and scheduling a dedicated consultation can effectively guide patients through their treatment options and benefits pertinent to their symptoms. This approach not only enhances patient care but also empowers individuals to take proactive steps towards better health and well-being.