Learning Objectives – Dental Sleep Medicine: Foundation Online Course
By the end of this course, delegates will be able to:
1. Understand Sleep Physiology and Disorders
Explain normal sleep architecture and the role of restorative sleep in systemic health.
Describe the pathophysiology, prevalence, and health impacts of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and related sleep-disordered breathing (SDB).
2. Recognise Clinical Presentations and Risk Factors
Identify common symptoms and signs of SDB in adults and children.
Recognise oral, craniofacial, and airway features associated with increased OSA risk.
3. Apply Screening and Assessment Tools
Use validated questionnaires (e.g., STOP-BANG, Epworth Sleepiness Scale) appropriately in dental practice.
Interpret basic sleep study reports and understand referral pathways for formal diagnosis.
4. Understand Dental Sleep Medicine Roles and Boundaries
Define the dentist’s role in the multidisciplinary management of OSA.
Recognise the limitations of dental-led care and the need for medical collaboration.
5. Introduction to Oral Appliance Therapy
Describe the mechanism of action, types, and indications for mandibular advancement devices (MADs).
Outline basic appliance selection principles, side effects, and patient management considerations.
6. Integrate DSM into Dental Practice
Discuss medico-legal considerations, and patient consent.
Understand record-keeping, follow-up protocols, and monitoring for efficacy and side effects.
7. Appreciate the Wider Health Context
Explain links between SDB, cardiovascular risk, metabolic disorders, and quality of life.
Recognise the dentist’s role in raising awareness and improving patient outcomes.