OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA AND DENTISTRY

Obstructive sleep apnea is a common disorder characterized by repetitive, complete or partial closure of the upper airway during sleep, resulting in sleep fragmentation and oxygen desaturation. the disorder causes significant morbidity, particularly in terms of impairment of daytime functioning and the impact this has on quality of life. the aim of this study is to review the neuromuscular and anatomic factors in the pathogenesis of obstructive sleep apnea. nasal continuous positive airway pressure is the current treatment of choice. oral appliance therapy is also effective in controlling obstructive sleep apnea in half of patients, including some patients with more severe forms of obstructive sleep apnea. knowledge of contraindications and indications for treatment, appliance design, steps of treatment and oropharyn- geal obstruction areas are very important to obtain success in treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.