Learning Objectives: 

• Recognize the oral signs and clinical red flags of airway dysfunction, tongue-tie, and sleep-disordered breathing during routine hygiene exams.  
• Explain the connection between disrupted sleep, hormonal imbalance (cortisol, melatonin, growth hormone, thyroid function), and systemic health.  
• Identify how myofunctional therapy supports oral posture, nasal breathing, and improved sleep quality as part of an oral-systemic approach.  
• Communicate evidence-based talking points to patients about the importance of airway and sleep hygiene without overstepping scope of practice.
•  Collaborate effectively with dentists, sleep physicians, and other providers to ensure comprehensive management of patients with suspected sleep-related breathing disorders.

Dental hygienists are uniquely positioned to uncover hidden health issues that extend far beyond the oral cavity. Emerging research highlights the powerful relationship between sleep, airway function, and systemic health, particularly the role of sleep in hormone regulation and chronic disease prevention. When airway disorders such as sleep-disordered breathing or tongue-tie go undetected, the downstream effects can include disrupted cortisol patterns, thyroid dysfunction, metabolic imbalance, and impaired growth and repair. This session will explore how oral dysfunction, including mouth breathing, restricted tongue mobility, poor oral posture, contribute to sleep disruption and systemic hormone dysregulation. Attendees will gain practical tools to identify red flags during routine hygiene visits, learn simple language to engage patients in conversations about airway and sleep hygiene, and understand when and how to collaborate with medical and dental colleagues for comprehensive care.