Dental Hygienists Take Center Stage in Airway Health Care

A recent article published in RDH Magazine by Nerissa Boggan, BSDH, RDH, Cert BBM, AOMT-C, highlights the expanding role of dental hygienists in identifying and treating airway dysfunction, positioning them as key players in addressing a significant public health concern.

The Growing Recognition of Dental Hygienists in Airway Health

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) has maintained a clear stance on orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) since 2020. According to the article, the ADHA “recognizes and supports registered dental hygienists who have received education in orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT). These dental hygienists can provide orofacial myofunctional assessments and treatment independently in various practice settings and for patients of all ages.”

Critical Role in Early Detection and Prevention

The article emphasizes that dental hygienists often serve as first responders in identifying airway dysfunction. Their position is particularly crucial given that patients typically visit dental offices more frequently than medical offices, allowing for earlier detection of potential issues. The author notes that malocclusion, if left untreated, can lead to various health problems, including sleep-disordered breathing.

The Scale of the Challenge

According to data cited from the Children’s Airway First Foundation, approximately 400 million children worldwide face compromised airways, with 11 million children under age 10 affected in the United States alone. Perhaps more concerning is that 95% of these cases remain undiagnosed. The article also points out that one in four adults have undiagnosed sleep apnea.

Evidence-Based Treatment Approaches

Research from Stanford, referenced in the article, demonstrates that myofunctional therapy shows promising results, reducing “the apnea-hypopnea index by approximately 50% in adults and 62% in children.” This therapy has also shown improvements in oxygen saturation levels, snoring, and daytime sleepiness in adult patients.

The Connection Between Oral and Overall Health

The article emphasizes that oral health extends beyond the absence of dental disease. A recent study cited in the publication revealed a connection between severe malocclusion, daytime sleepiness, and symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing in both children and adults. This understanding reinforces the importance of comprehensive oral health care that considers airway function.

Looking Forward

As the field of dental hygiene enters its 112th year, the profession continues to evolve, particularly in addressing airway health concerns. The article suggests that dental hygienists’ unique position and training make them ideal candidates for bridging the gap between dentistry and medicine, potentially creating more equitable access to comprehensive oral health care.