AADSM and ABDSM Team Up to Increase Awareness of Oral Appliance Therapy and Improve the Lives of Patients

(LISLE, IL) May 4, 2021 – Oral appliance therapy provided by qualified dentists is a clinically proven treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), with the potential to help millions of patients get a better night’s sleep.  The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) and the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM) are working together to spread this important message.
 
“We often hear patients say they didn’t even know an oral appliance was a treatment option,” said AADSM president Dr. David Schwartz. “They’re thrilled to learn a custom-fit oral appliance can improve their sleep, restore their alertness and revitalize their health,” he added.
 
Oral appliances are a proven and effective treatment for OSA and snoring. Worn during sleep, the appliance fits in the mouth and supports the jaw in a forward position to help maintain an open upper airway. Often patients prefer oral appliances to CPAP because they are less invasive and more comfortable, quiet, and discreet, as well as easy to use and maintain. For the same reasons, oral appliances have a significantly higher rate of patient compliance than a CPAP.
 
Treating OSA requires dentists to acquire postdoctoral continuing education, exercise excellent clinical judgement, and collaborate with physicians. It is important dentists have training to provide oral appliance therapy, which is why the ABDSM is joining in this initiative.
 
“ABDSM Diplomates have demonstrated they have the skills and knowledge essential for the delivery of excellent patient care, and it is important that we spread the message patients and referring providers should be seeking out ABDSM Diplomates for oral appliance therapy,” said ABDSM president Dr. Katherine Phillips.
 
To learn more about oral appliance therapy and to find a qualified dentist, visit www.aadsm.org/forpatients.
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About the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine
The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) is the only non-profit national professional society dedicated exclusively to the practice of dental sleep medicine. The AADSM provides educational resources for dentists and promotes the use of oral appliance therapy for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and sleep-disordered breathing. Established in 1991, the AADSM has more than 3,000-member dentists worldwide. Visit www.aadsm.org or call the national office at (630) 686-9875 for more information.
 
About the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine
Established in 2004, the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM) is an independent, self-designated, nonprofit testing organization of dentists who treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy. Today, more than 750 ABDSM Diplomates are providing quality treatment for patients across the country. The ABDSM designates an individual who meets its requirements as a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Visit www.abdsm.org or call the national office at (630) 686-9875 for more information.