Minnesota Dental Hygienists' Knowledge and Attitudes of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Screening Practices

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a multi-factorial disease characterized by the collapse of the airway during sleep. A multi-disciplinary approach is used to assess, diagnose, treat, and maintain OSA patients with dentistry holding an important role in this relationship. The objective of this study was to determine the current knowledge and attitudes of OSA among Minnesota dental hygienists. A secondary objective was to inventory the screening tools used to assess OSA. A previously validated OSA survey was adapted for use with dental hygienists. A sample of 750 was used with a 26% return rate. Descriptive statistics showed the current knowledge was moderate, and less than 10% of hygienist surveyed worked in practices with established OSA screening protocols. Correlations between age, years in practice, hours worked, and degree type on overall OSA knowledge and attitudes did not show a significant relationship (p<0.05). Dental hygienists are already conducting some OSA pre-screening practices, making them a potentially vital member of OSA screening process.