PEDIATRIC OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA AND THE ROLE DENTAL HYGIENISTS PLAY IN ACHIEVING OPTIMAL HEALTH AND QUALITY OF LIFE: A PILOT STUDY

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to evaluate the current practice, confidence, barriers, and experience of dental hygienists who screen or identify signs, symptoms, and risk factors of those who struggle with pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. This study was designed to provide a brief perspective to identify gaps or needs for improvement in dental hygiene practice. Members of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association participated in an electronic survey. While 231 participants responded, most reported some familiarity with obstructive sleep apnea in children, but many are unaware of guidelines from other professional organizations for screening protocols. Results depict a lack of training and were determined as the most significant barrier to screening children for OSA. Conveying challenges through improved education, standardized protocols, and stronger interprofessional collaboration could encourage dental hygienists to contribute more proficiently to the early detection, intervention, and management of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea, essentially improving patient outcomes.