Seminars in Orthodontics VOL 15, NO 2
JUNE 2009
Introduction bstructive sleep apnea syndrome is a serious condition that afflicts a substantial number of individuals. It is characterized by disruption of normal sleep architecture by complete or partial obstruction of respiratory airflow. Airflow obstruction results in a reduction of blood oxygen saturation know as hypoxemia. It produces arousal in an attempt to reopen the airway. These recurring arousals disrupt sleep architecture, which diminishes the quality of sleep. This cycle results in excessive daytime somnolence, which is one of the hallmark features of this disease condition. Excessive daytime somnolence greatly diminishes the quality of life in affected individuals and impacts unfavorably their state of health. Affected individuals with excessive daytime somnolence have greatly diminished productivity, impaired cognition, greater accident rates, and multiple medical-dental disorders that impact every aspect of their lives. If untreated, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome greatly shortens the expected life span from many associated comorbidities, such as increased rates of cardiovascular and pulmonary disease and obesity-related diabetes mellitus. In addition, craniodentofacial abnormalities can produce airway abnormalities that result in airflow obstruction during sleep. These abnormalities can result in obstructive sleep apnea. Therapeutic interventions that are directed at the site of airway obstruction in the maxillofacial region are within the scope of dentistry. This
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issue of Seminars in Orthodontics on obstructive sleep apnea syndrome will address the forms of this disorder that are caused by dentofacial abnormalities and their impact on the airway. It will include the pathophysiology and its resultant effect on systemic and dental health. Therapeutic interventions, including nonsurgical means and surgical techniques, will be investigated. Finally, new and exciting research in air-flow dynamics of the airway will be discussed. Our understanding of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and its significance on general health is in a rapid state of development. There is a great increase in research of this disorder and its complex etiology. It is a multifactorial disease process which has profound negative health and quality of life effects. Ongoing research of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome continues to demonstrate the effect that dentofacial support of the airway has on this disease. Modern imaging techniques of the airway have great promise to more clearly define this disease process and the possible effect of maxillomandibular advancement on this condition. Dental practitioners can play a significant role in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. It is imperative that the dental community continues to participate in the research and treatment of this serious and pervasive health problem.
Š 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. doi:10.1053/j.sodo.2009.01.001
Seminars in Orthodontics, Vol 15, No 2 (June), 2009: p 85
Joseph R. Deatherage Guest Editor
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