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BDS, IMOrth RCSEng, MSc, MFDS RCSEd, MFGDP RCSEng, MAcadMEd, PGCertMedEd, Post-CCST in Orthodontics; St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is episodic total or partial airway collapse, causing interrupted sleep, excessive snoring and tiredness. Patients at risk of OSA may be identified by their general dental practitioner (GDP), and referred to a medical professional for diagnosis and treatment. Management includes advice on lifestyle and sleep hygiene; continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the most effective treatment for OSA. Patients with mild-moderate OSA or are unable to tolerate or benefit from CPAP therapy may be provided with a mandibular advancement splint (MAS), which is prescribed by an orthodontist or other trained dental professional. The GDP has a role in ensuring patients are dentally fit for MAS treatment and in monitoring them.
CPD/Clinical Relevance: The symptoms, causes and treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea are useful to know.
Article
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is episodic complete or partial collapse of the airway, causing interrupted sleep patterns, excessive snoring, and daytime lethargy. These consequences can significantly impact patients' quality of life. The condition is increasingly encountered by general dental practitioners (GDPs) in primary care through detailed medical history taking. With better knowledge, GDPs can help to identify patients who are at risk to encourage prompt referrals to the appropriate medical professional for diagnosis and treatment.
The presentation of OSA can vary greatly. Table 1 outlines key symptoms with which patients may present.1 Often, a patient's sleeping partner may be the first person to notice these symptoms owing to loud snoring and witnessed apnoeic episodes. The ‘elbow sign’ questionnaire can be used as a predictor of OSA diagnosis where the patient reports being elbowed by their partner because of loud snoring or cessation of breathing.2
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