EXPLORING SLEEP MEDICINE: INSIGHTS FROM DR AMA JOHAL ON MANAGING SNORING AND OSA

Professor Ama Johal is one of the UK's foremost experts in Sleep Medicine, particularly in the management of Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA). With over 20 years of clinical research, and development experience in the field, his work has been presented both nationally and internationally. He has trained thousands of General Dental Practitioners (GDPs), helping them understand the crucial role that dentistry plays in the treatment of sleep-related breathing disorders.

In this blog post, we dive into some of the insights that Professor Johal has shared on the importance of sleep medicine and the growing significance of GDPs in managing these conditions.

What first sparked your interest in sleep medicine and, specifically, in addressing snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA)?

It really started from a research perspective, after I was asked to review some weak evidence on the potential role of the jaws in causing collapse of the upper airway. From this, I developed a strong research evidence base in Sleep Medicine and at the same time, a Clinical PhD exploring the positive impact of Mandibular Advancement Appliances. Now, I have been in the field for 30 years - Boy, that makes me feel very old!

Why do you feel it's so important to inform general dental practitioners (GDPs) about their role in manging snoring and OSA? 

Based on the wealth of Clinical and research experience I have gained, I am in no doubt of the very key role Dental Sleep Medicine has to play. This has been acknowledged based on my work in helping develop the first Government-lead NICE guideline on Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders, which clearly reiterates the role of Dentistry. 

Could you share your perspective on Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS) therapy and its effectiveness in managing snoring and mild to moderate OSA?

Wow... where do I begin? There is now such a strong evidence-base demonstrating the positive impact of custom-made MAS on - symptomatic improvement - with reversal of symptoms of poor sleep quality, partner-disturbed snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, nocturnal blood pressure and quality of life. 

More importantly, there is strong evidence for the fact that patients prefer to use a MAS over the alternative of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy for obstructive sleep apnoea.

How can GDPs leverage the knowledge from your courses to make a meaningful impact on their patients' health and overall well-being? 

The full-day course is designed to meet the key requirements and gain an understanding of: 

• The spectrum of sleep-related breathing disorders and their management
• The role, selection, guidelines and design features of MAS therapy
• The appropriate skills in use of a range of screening tools for sleep-related breathing disorders
• A practical, step-by-step guide to the provision of MAS treatment
• Delegates then also gain access to on-going support too.

If you could share one key piece of advice with GDPs starting to explore the world of sleep medicine, what would it be?

Easy... get involved! Make a real impact on the quality of life and wellbeing of not just your patients, but their families too!

Professor Johal's work continues to be a beacon for those in the dental profession seeking to expand their knowledge and improve patient care in the field of sleep medicine. His clinical expertise and passion for research are inspiring a new generation of GDPs to recognize the importance of managing snoring and OSA - conditions that affect millions worldwide.

We’re excited to announce our upcoming in-person seminars on Snoring & OSA Management, led by Professor Ama Johal. These comprehensive seminars will cover everything GDPs need to know about sleep-related breathing disorders, including:

• The latest research and clinical insights into snoring and OSA.
• The role and effectiveness of Mandibular Advancement Splints (MAS) in treatment.
• Practical, hands-on training to enhance your skills in sleep medicine.

This is a unique opportunity to learn from one of the UK's leading experts in sleep medicine and take your practice to the next level. Don’t miss the chance to make a real impact on your patients' health and quality of life. Book your spot here!