Obstructive sleep apnoea and the role of the dental team

Overview Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a medical condition characterised by multiple episodes of reduced or absent breathing during sleep. OSA can reduce quality of life and raise the risk of significant medical conditions, such as strokes, hypertension, type II diabetes mellitus and sudden cardiac death. This article aims to summarise the key features of OSA and the role the dental team can play in its management.

Clinical relevance OSA can have life-threatening consequences if left untreated and the dental team have a role in recognition, referral and treatment.

Objectives The reader should have better knowledge of OSA and their potential role in diagnosis and management.