Year : 2020

Volume : Volume 11

Issue : Issue 3

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Mrinal Bundela.
MrinalBundela@gmail.com

Abstract

Background:  Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is currently a common sleep associated breathing disorder, which have profound effects on the health and quality of life. It is characterized by the cessation of air flow during sleep due to an obstruction in the nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal region. The orthodontics specialty involves much more than just moving teeth, and the management of sleep apnea bears witness to this. There is a significant role of orthodontist, both in screening for obstructive sleep apnea and as a key player of the multidisciplinary team, in the management of OSA in both children and adults. As an Orthodontist, one has expertise in science of facial growth and development and their knowledge of oral appliances such as mandibular advancement devices make orthodontists well suited to collaborate with other allied health providers in the treatment of OSA. This article highlights the key role of orthodontist in the diagnosis and treatment of OSA patients.

Keywords: Obstructive sleep apnea, Snoring, Orthodontics, Oral appliance.