Correlation of upper airway radiographic measurements with risk status for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in young dental patients.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study is to compare radiographic measurements of the upper airway (UA) in young adult patients with different levels of risk status for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

STUDY DESIGN: The study included 50 patients between 18 and 30 years of age who were referred for dental examination and evaluation of impacted third molars. Case record forms, including habit history, along with the Berlin Questionnaire and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, were completed by the patients and their relatives. According to the answers, 25 low-risk patients and 25 high-risk patients were selected. Cephalometric radiographs and cone beam computed radiography images were obtained for radiographic analysis when the patients were admitted into the study.

RESULTS: There were significant differences in body mass index, neck circumference measurements, Epworth score, and smoking status between risk groups. There were significant differences for UA measurements on radiographic evaluation. Body mass index (BMI) was found to be correlated positively with neck circumference and Epworth scores and negatively with UA measurements for all patients. Velopharyngeal measurements showed the highest correlation with Epworth scores, BMI, and neck circumference.

CONCLUSIONS: The radiographic findings correlated with the survey results. Our data suggest that radiographic measurements of UA may be used as a predictor of risk for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in a young population.