Ottawa TMJ & Sleep Apnea Clinic is pleased to announce that Dr. Dahan has received the designation of Qualified Dentist through the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM). This is a significant achievement, reserved only for the most dedicated dentists in the field of dental sleep medicine. The designation confirms that our clinic offers comprehensive dental care and sleep medicine treatments to benefit the everyday lives of the Ottawa region’s residents.
About the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM)
The AADSM was first established in 1991 and is still the only non-profit society of dental professionals dedicated to practicing dental sleep medicine. Dentists who are part of the organization are those who, like Dr. Dahan, use oral appliances to treat issues such as obstructive sleep apnea. The AADSM exists to advance the role of dentists in addressing such health problems. It also operates as a platform for qualified dentists such as Dr. Dahan to work with other physicians to better reduce instances of snoring and sleep apnea. Founded by a small group of dentists interesting in studying, researching, and practicing dental sleep medicine, the AADSM now consists of well over 3,000 members.
What Does This Designation Mean?
The AADSM Qualified Dentist designation recognizes dentists who have a valid dental license and liability coverage within the last two years. The qualified dentist also has at least 25 hours of verified additional education in dental sleep medicine from a university or non-profit organization within those same two years. The designation is awarded for a two-year period, and the dentist is able to renew to keep the appointment active.
AADSM Qualified Dentist Designation Requirements
There are many requirements for a dentist’s application to the AADSM to be approved. First, the dentist must confirm that their license and professional liability coverage are valid. They must then document at least fifteen hours of continued education in dental sleep medicine from an approved provider. They then submit the application to AADSM administration.
What is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Many are unfamiliar with the latest way of treating sleep apnea, which is by using a customized device similar to a mouthguard. Fitted to match the shape of a person’s mouth structure, this oral appliance is worn during sleep to keep the airway open, unobstructed, and allow for a good night’s rest with plenty of oxygen. Dr. Dahan is one of few trained dentists who use this type of treatment, and his Qualified Dentist designation from the AADSM indicates the level of service he and Ottawa TMJ & Sleep Apnea Clinic can provide.
How Qualified Dentists Benefit Dental Sleep Care
By working to become part of the AADSM, dentists can share their knowledge and ideas with other medical professionals. This can open the door to new discoveries and innovations in the world of dental sleep treatment and care. Dentists practicing sleep medicine are encouraged to join the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, for the same reasons. By working together to advance the study of dental sleep care, local communities can benefit from even more innovations and improvements in the future.