A Specialty at the Intersection of Dentistry and Sleep Medicine
Dental sleep medicine is a specialized area of dental practice focused on the oral treatment of sleep-related breathing disorders — primarily obstructive sleep apnea and snoring. Dentists who practice dental sleep medicine have received advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders using oral appliances, and they work in close collaboration with sleep physicians.
What Does a Dental Sleep Medicine Specialist Do?
A dental sleep medicine specialist does not diagnose sleep apnea — that is the role of a sleep physician. Instead, they:
- Evaluate patients who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea by a physician for oral appliance candidacy
- Design, fit, and adjust custom mandibular advancement devices
- Monitor patients for side effects including bite changes and jaw joint issues
- Coordinate with sleep physicians to confirm treatment effectiveness
- Manage long-term follow-up and device maintenance
- Educate patients about their treatment options
Training and Credentials
Dentists who specialize in dental sleep medicine typically have completed additional postgraduate training in sleep medicine beyond their dental degree. The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) offers a Diplomate certification — the highest credential in the field — for dentists who pass a comprehensive examination and demonstrate clinical experience. Many SkipTheCPAP directory providers are AADSM members or Diplomates.
Why See a Dental Sleep Medicine Specialist Instead of a Regular Dentist?
While any licensed dentist can technically prescribe an oral appliance, the complexity of properly fitting, titrating, and monitoring these devices requires specialized training. Poorly fitted devices can cause significant side effects including tooth movement and bite changes. An experienced dental sleep specialist knows how to optimize the therapeutic effect while minimizing risks and provides the ongoing monitoring necessary for long-term success.
The Relationship Between Sleep Physicians and Dental Sleep Specialists
The ideal sleep apnea care model involves a team: a sleep physician who diagnoses your condition and monitors your treatment outcomes, and a dental sleep specialist who manages your oral appliance therapy. The two providers communicate regularly, and follow-up sleep testing is typically ordered by your physician to confirm your oral appliance is effective.
Many dental sleep specialists have established referral relationships with sleep physicians in their area, making the coordination process seamless for patients.
How to Find a Dental Sleep Medicine Specialist
SkipTheCPAP.com is the most comprehensive directory of dental sleep medicine providers in the United States, featuring over 1,100 specialists across all 50 states. You can search by city, state, or zip code to find a qualified provider near you who accepts your insurance. Start your search today and take the first step toward better sleep.