About American academy of dental sleep medicine
The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) is a non-profit national professional society that was established in 1991. The organization is dedicated exclusively to the practice of dental sleep medicine, and it is the only one of its kind in the United States. The AADSM represents dentists who specialize in treating sleep-disordered breathing, which includes obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring, with oral appliance therapy (OAT).
The AADSM has been at the forefront of dental sleep medicine for over three decades. Its mission is to promote high-quality patient care through education, research, and advocacy. The organization provides its members with access to cutting-edge research and clinical information on dental sleep medicine.
One of the primary goals of the AADSM is to raise awareness about OSA and other sleep disorders among both healthcare professionals and the general public. According to recent studies, as many as 25 million adults in America suffer from OSA alone. This condition can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, depression, and even death if left untreated.
Dentists who are members of the AADSM are specially trained in diagnosing and treating OSA using oral appliance therapy (OAT). This treatment involves wearing a custom-made device that helps keep your airway open while you sleep. Unlike traditional CPAP machines that use continuous positive airway pressure to keep your airway open during sleep, OAT devices are comfortable and easy to wear.
The AADSM offers a variety of resources for both patients and healthcare professionals interested in learning more about dental sleep medicine. These include educational materials such as brochures on OSA diagnosis and treatment options; online courses for dentists seeking certification in dental sleep medicine; webinars on current topics related to dental sleep medicine; an annual conference where members can network with colleagues from around the country; a directory of certified dentists who specialize in OSA treatment; and much more.
The AADSM is committed to advancing the field of dental sleep medicine through research. The organization funds studies on the effectiveness of OAT for treating OSA and other sleep disorders. It also collaborates with other organizations to promote research on the relationship between oral health and overall health.
In addition to its educational and research initiatives, the AADSM advocates for policies that support access to high-quality dental sleep medicine care. The organization works with policymakers at both the state and federal levels to ensure that patients have access to affordable, effective treatments for sleep disorders.
Overall, the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine is a vital resource for anyone interested in learning more about dental sleep medicine. Its commitment to education, research, advocacy, and patient care has made it a leader in this rapidly growing field. If you or someone you know suffers from snoring or other sleep disorders, consider contacting a certified dentist who specializes in OSA treatment through the AADSM's directory of members.