THE DENTISTRY IN OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA SYNDROME: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Abstract

This paper aims to conduct a literature review on the aspects of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSA), diagnosis and treatment, focusing on the intraoral devices. The OSA is a chronic respiratory disorder. Characterized by a collapse of the upper airway during sleep, resulting in reduced or no airflow to the lungs. The etiology is multifactorial. The diagnosis includes clinical examination and sleep study as polysomnography. Among the treatment options are the intraoral devices, which when properly prescribed and prepared, allow the partial or total removal of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. It can be concluded that dentistry plays an essential role in OSA diagnosis and treatment.