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J Am Dent Assoc, Vol 136, No 8, 1121-1129. © 2005 American Dental Association

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JADA Continuing Education

Diagnosis, medical management and dental implications

Background. Patients with undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) represent a major public health problem, and studies suggest that the incidence of OSA may be even higher than estimated.

Types of Studies Reviewed. The authors reviewed current literature describing comorbidities of patients with OSA.

Results. Sleep medicine is a relatively new field. Dental practitioners may lack educational exposure and, as a result, feel uncomfortable asking their patients sleep-related questions. While patients with well-controlled OSA present few difficulties for routine dental treatment, it is imperative that health care professionals understand the comorbidities associated with OSA and that untreated OSA may contribute to increased morbidity and mortality.

Clinical Implications. Dental professionals have a unique doctor-patient relationship that affords them a role in recognizing sleep disorders by exploring the history of patients who are sleepy.

Key Words: Obstructive sleep apnea; sleep-disorder–affected breathing; dentistry; adults

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