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Good morning.

We’ve never been a big fans of promoting pharmaceuticals as we tend to lean towards the “heal naturally as much as possible” camp.

But in this instance, there are incredible discoveries being made that you need to know about.

Let's get started!

In Today’s Edition:

• AD109: A New Pill for Sleep Apnea Treatment

• A $300,000 Sleep Apnea Revenue Boost

• Industry Events

• [Video] A New Pill for Sleep Apnea

5-minute read👇

Clinical Corner

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Key Takeaways🔑

AD109: A New Pill for Sleep Apnea Treatment

Clinical Trials and Results

AD109, a combination of aroxybutynin and atomoxetine, is currently in phase III clinical trials. Aroxybutynin treats overactive bladder symptoms, while atomoxetine is used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Phase II trials showed promising results:

• No Serious Side Effects: Patients reported no major adverse effects.

• Improvement in Chronic Fatigue: Marked improvement in fatigue symptoms.

• Reduction in AHI Scores:

  • Mild OSA (AHI 10-15): 77% of patients lowered their scores to below 10.

  • Moderate OSA (AHI 15-30): 42% achieved scores below 10.

  • Severe OSA (AHI >30): 7% reached scores of 10 or below.

Study Limitations

While the initial results are promising, the study has limitations:

• Oxygen Saturation Data: The study did not include blood oxygen saturation improvements, focusing instead on hypoxic burden.

• Expert Critique: Dr. Douglas Kirsch highlights the need for more comprehensive oxygen saturation data to fully understand the treatment's efficacy.

Practical Implications

AD109 represents a significant advancement in OSA therapeutics, especially for mild to moderate cases. However, experts like Dr. Erin Elliott stress the importance of a combined treatment approach, integrating medication with other therapies like oral appliances. Tailoring treatments based on patient phenotypes rather than a one-size-fits-all philosophy is crucial for effective OSA management.

Conclusion: Takeaways for Dental Sleep Professionals

• Stay Informed: Ongoing clinical trials and emerging treatments like AD109 are constantly being validated for the treatment of OSA.

• Collaborate: Work closely with medical professionals to provide holistic care for OSA patients.

• Tailor Treatments: Consider patient-specific factors and combine therapies for optimal results.

• Monitor Compliance: Address compliance issues with traditional treatments and explore new options that may enhance patient adherence.

AD109 offers a promising new avenue for OSA treatment, but integrating it with existing therapies and maintaining a patient-centric approach will be key to its success in clinical practice.

Business of Sleep

📈Better businesses = more lives saved!

Transforming Your Dental Practice: A $300,000 Sleep Apnea Revenue Boost in 12 Months

Introduction

Sleep apnea treatment offers an untapped opportunity for dental professionals. With up to 80% of cases undiagnosed, the demand for effective solutions is immense. Yet, many dental practices struggle to integrate sleep apnea services profitably. This article outlines five simple steps to add $300,000 in sleep apnea treatment revenue within a year—without relying on MD referrals.

The Sleep Apnea Opportunity

Many dentists recognize the potential of sleep apnea treatment: high revenue, low overhead, and minimal chair time. Yet, without a structured system, this potential remains unrealized. The key is attracting patients directly and effectively managing their treatment journey.

Step 1: Targeted Messaging

Reaching the Right Audience

Using social media to place targeted ads can directly address people discussing snoring, CPAP use, and sleep apnea symptoms. Focus on those already diagnosed but unaware of oral appliance therapy as an option.

• Tip: Use simple, authentic cell phone videos for ads to appear genuine and relatable.

• Educational Focus: Create content comparing CPAP and sleep appliances, identifying OSA symptoms, and highlighting alternatives to CPAP.

Example:

A short video explaining "CPAP vs. Sleep Appliances: Which Stops Snoring Better?" can attract attention and drive inquiries.

Step 2: Effective Sleep Funnels

Capturing Leads

A well-designed landing page, or sleep funnel, is essential. Balance clinical information with personal connections and a clear call-to-action (CTA).

• Tip: Make it immediately clear what action the visitor should take, such as filling out contact details or calling your office. Only have one CTA!

Example:

A landing page featuring testimonials and a CTA like "Request a Consultation to Explore Sleep Appliance Options" can drive engagement.

Step 3: Automated Soft Follow-up

Streamlined Communication

Automating follow-ups ensures no lead is lost and reduces staff workload. Use a lead management system to handle initial communications.

• Tip: Filter out leads unlikely to proceed due to insurance limitations, allowing staff to focus on high-potential patients.

Example:

Automated texts and emails confirming receipt of a consultation request and providing further information about oral appliance therapy.

Step 4: Personal Hard Follow-up

Direct Engagement

Automated systems are great, but personal follow-up is crucial. Ensure staff calls leads within 5-10 minutes during business hours.

• Tip: Pre-call text messages increase the likelihood of calls being answered.

Example:

Sending a text like, "Hi, we'll call you shortly to discuss your sleep apnea treatment options," followed by a phone call to establish a personal connection.

Step 5: Storytelling and Testimonials

Building Trust

Patient stories can transform potential leads into committed patients. Use testimonials to showcase real-life successes.

• Tip: Record authentic patient testimonials on cell phones to maintain authenticity and relatability.

Example:

A patient describing their experience: "Before my sleep appliance, CPAP was unbearable. Now, I sleep soundly and wake up refreshed."

Conclusion

Implementing these five steps can revolutionize your dental practice's approach to sleep apnea treatment, adding significant revenue and improving patient outcomes. Focus on targeted messaging, effective lead capture, automated follow-ups, personal engagement, and leveraging patient stories. By doing so, you create a predictable, efficient system that capitalizes on the sleep apnea treatment opportunity.

Actionable Steps

1. Create Targeted Social Media Campaigns: Focus on diagnosed patients needing alternatives to CPAP.

2. Develop a Compelling Landing Page: Ensure clear CTAs and balanced information.

3. Automate Initial Follow-ups: Use lead management systems to streamline communication.

4. Prioritize Personal Engagement: Follow up with leads promptly and personally.

5. Leverage Patient Testimonials: Use real stories to build trust and encourage new patients.

By following these steps, you can transform your practice, improve patient care, and significantly increase your revenue. The future of sleep apnea treatment in dental practices is bright—start making these changes today to see the impact in just 12 months.

Something Sweet

🍭Stuff so sweet you might get a cavity..

Industry Events

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Miscellaneous

😅P.S. … I forgot something

Explore the potential of a revolutionary new pill for treating sleep apnea and how it could transform patient care!