Incorporating airway assessments into routine medical and dental appointments
Optimal health depends on functional, efficient and healthy sleep and breathing. As front line providers, all healthcare providers are positioned to recognized signs and symptoms of disordered breathing and sleep apnea to support overall health and wellness. Disordered breathing is common, often underdiagnosed, and can significantly impact mental, physical and oral health. Many of the warning signs- especially in children- are visitable in the head, neck and oral structures.-making medical and dental settings the ideal place for early identification and treatment. This introductory course will equip participants with foundational knowledge to recognize key red flags and contributing factors of disorded breathing in both children and adults. Attendees will leave with practical strategies and increased confidence to begin incorporation of basic airway screenings into routine wellness visits.
Participants will learn:
- Definition of disordered breathing and sleep apnea. to support collaborative airway care.
- Discover the link between disordered breathing, sleep apnea and overall health
- Recognize various contributing factors for poor airway health
- Identify screening tools and referral pathways for medical and dental providers
Presenters:
Lancette VanGuilder BS,RDH,PHEDH,CEAS,FADHA
More courses with Lancette VanGuilderLancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH, PHEDH, CEAS, FADHA, is an internationally recognized speaker, podcast host, clinician, lobbyist, and healthcare thought leader redefining the conversation around medical-dental integration, airway health, prevention, and innovation. Known for translating emerging science into practical, powerful strategies, she helps audiences connect the dots between breathing, sleep, oral health, chronic disease, and whole-person wellness.
With a career spanning clinical care, public health, advocacy, and national leadership, Lancette challenges outdated models of care and inspires healthcare professionals to think bigger, collaborate across disciplines, and lead the shift from reactive treatment to proactive prevention. Her energetic, thought-provoking presentations blend science, technology, real-world experience, and bold ideas about the future of healthcare.
As Immediate Past President of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, Lancette has helped shape conversations around leadership, autonomy, prevention, and the future of healthcare. Her work has earned national recognition and numerous awards for innovation, advocacy, and impact.
Lancette can be reached at lancettevg@gmail.com
