Orthodontics and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: Evaluating the Evidence on Airway Changes

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is the recurring folding of the upper airway during sleep, resulting in complete or partial airway obstruction leading to apnoea, hypopnea, or both. Left undiagnosed and untreated, it can lead to several complications; for instance, neurocognitive dysfunction, such as dizziness and impaired quality of life, due to reduced sleep and increased fatigue, as well as cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, stroke, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. Obstructive sleep apnoea is generally diagnosed in a sleep laboratory over the course of a night and can also be detected at home following alternative approaches. In addition to the conventional treatment modalities such as adenotonsillectomy and continuous positive airway pressure, orthodontists play a vital role in the management of OSA via a multidisciplinary approach. Specifically, orthodontists can influence craniofacial anatomy through both surgical and non-surgical approaches. This review aims to establish the relationship between orthodontic interventions, both surgical and non-surgical, and the management of OSA. In addition, it explores the pathophysiology and diagnosis of OSA, various treatment options, and the use of novel technology to assist in the management of OSA.

Keywords: airway obstruction; craniofacial morphology; mandibular advancement devices; obstructive sleep apnoea (osa); orthodontic treatment.