Step 1
History
We review reported sleep, breathing, health, medication, and dental concerns without assuming a diagnosis.
Preventative dental care in Las Vegas
Sleep and Airway Assessment in Las Vegas
A sleep and airway assessment is a dental screening for oral and facial findings or reported symptoms that may warrant further evaluation. At Avocabo Dental & Orthodontics, our doctors can discuss observed concerns and coordinate an appropriate referral, but a dental screening does not diagnose sleep apnea.
What Does Sleep and Airway Assessment Involve?
The assessment combines health-history questions with a dental examination of relevant oral structures, growth, bite, and other visible findings. The team may discuss symptoms reported by the patient or caregiver, such as snoring, mouth breathing, gasping, witnessed breathing pauses, or daytime tiredness. Diagnosis requires evaluation and testing by an appropriate medical professional.
Who May Benefit?
Children, teens, or adults with reported snoring, mouth breathing, witnessed breathing pauses, disrupted sleep, morning headaches, or daytime tiredness may benefit from discussing these concerns. These symptoms can have many causes and do not establish a diagnosis by themselves.
An in-person evaluation is required before Dr. Bo Kwok and Dr. Camy Kwok can recommend care for an individual patient.
What Can Patients Expect?
Step 2
Dental screening
A doctor examines relevant oral structures, the bite, growth when applicable, and other findings within the scope of a dental visit.
Step 3
Next steps
Findings are explained and, when appropriate, the patient is advised to seek evaluation from a physician or qualified sleep professional.
Potential Benefits
- Creates an opportunity to discuss sleep and breathing concerns during dental care
- May identify findings or reported symptoms that deserve medical follow-up
- Supports communication among the patient, dental team, and medical professionals
Limitations and Considerations
- A dental screening cannot diagnose or rule out obstructive sleep apnea
- Symptoms and oral findings are not specific to one condition
- Medical evaluation and a sleep study may be needed
- The assessment does not mean that an oral appliance or orthodontic treatment is appropriate
What Alternatives May Be Considered?
Patients may discuss concerns directly with a primary-care physician, pediatrician, ear-nose-and-throat specialist, pulmonologist, or qualified sleep professional. The appropriate evaluation depends on age, symptoms, health history, and medical guidance.
Comfort, Recovery, and Aftercare
The dental screening is generally part of an examination and does not require recovery. If another provider recommends testing or treatment, follow that provider's preparation, safety, and follow-up instructions.
When Should You Contact Our Office?
Contact the office if you want to discuss sleep or airway concerns observed alongside dental or orthodontic care. Seek urgent medical help for severe trouble breathing, blue or gray skin color, inability to wake normally, or another medical emergency.
Call us at 702-623-8832Insurance and Payment
Benefits and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan and treatment. Our team can help review available benefit information and discuss payment options after an evaluation; coverage is not guaranteed. Visit our insurance and payment page for current practice information.
Sleep and Airway Assessment FAQs
No. A dental team can screen for concerns and discuss referral, but diagnosis requires appropriate medical evaluation and testing.
No. Snoring can occur for different reasons. Persistent snoring, gasping, witnessed pauses, or daytime symptoms should be discussed with an appropriate healthcare professional.
A qualified medical professional determines whether sleep testing is appropriate based on symptoms, history, and examination.
This page describes screening and referral, not a promise of sleep-apnea treatment. Any dental or orthodontic care is considered only after appropriate evaluation and coordination.
Benefits vary by plan and service. Our team can discuss available information, but coverage is determined by the plan and is not guaranteed.
Have Questions About Sleep and Airway Assessment?
Schedule an in-person evaluation at our Las Vegas office to discuss your concerns and appropriate next steps.
Request an Appointment