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We aren’t saying the robots are taking over… but if they are… they are going to start by making sure we are too tired to fight back 😳

The bidirectional relationship between technology and sleep are affecting our patients day-to-day and we need to be able to educate them on how to fight back!

In Today’s Edition:

• Bi-Directional Impact of Technology on Sleep

• Pro Tips for Communicating with Medical Referrals

• Industry Events

• Sleep Creativity and Sleep

5-minute read👇

Clinical Corner

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Key Takeaways🔑

Bi-Directional Impact of Technology on Sleep

Introduction

In the digital age, the glowing screens that fill our days are increasingly encroaching on our nights. Recent research paints a nuanced picture of the relationship between technology use and sleep, suggesting a bi-directional influence that dental sleep professionals should be aware of when advising patients. This comprehensive review reveals how technology affects sleep and vice versa, offering fresh perspectives that could transform how we manage sleep health in a tech-saturated world.

Understanding the Complex Dynamics

The traditional belief that technology merely disrupts sleep is evolving. Studies now indicate that the relationship between sleep and technology is bi-directional—poor sleep can lead to increased technology use at bedtime, which in turn may further disrupt sleep. Here’s how these findings could impact your practice:

1. Bright Light and Alertness:

   • Direct Impact: Exposure to bright light from screens can delay the timing of melatonin release, extending the time it takes to fall asleep.

   • Indirect Impact: The phase-shifting of our circadian rhythms by evening light exposure contributes to later sleep times, particularly in those who are sensitive to light.

2. Arousal Hypothesis:

   • Engaging with stimulating content before bed can increase physiological arousal, making it harder to fall asleep. However, the impact may be less significant than previously thought, often extending sleep onset by only a few minutes.

3. Nighttime Disruptions:

   • Alerts and notifications can wake individuals from sleep, leading to significant sleep fragmentation. This mechanism has been identified as a substantial contributor to the technology-sleep problem nexus.

4. Sleep Displacement:

   • Technology use can delay both the time we decide to go to bed and the time we actually attempt to sleep (shut-eye time), reducing overall sleep duration and quality.

Revised Theoretical Model

The updated model proposed in this study highlights three critical revisions:

• Recognition of Bi-Directionality: Acknowledging that sleep problems can also lead to increased pre-sleep technology use.

• Emotion Regulation and Time Filling: Using technology as a means to manage emotional distress or simply to pass time until one feels ready to sleep.

• Moderating Factors: Identifying individual differences that may amplify or mitigate the impacts of technology on sleep and vice versa.

Practical Applications for Dental Sleep Specialists

As specialists at the intersection of dental and sleep health, understanding these dynamics is crucial. Here’s how you can apply this knowledge:

• Patient Education: Inform patients about the impacts of technology on sleep, emphasizing the importance of minimizing exposure to bright screens before bedtime and managing the content they consume.

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• Customized Advice: Recognize that not all patients are affected equally. Tailor your advice based on individual sensitivity to light, susceptibility to content arousal, and personal habits around technology use at night.

• Environment Optimization: Advise patients on creating a sleep-conducive environment, which might include reducing nighttime disruptions from devices and setting boundaries around technology use in the bedroom.

Conclusion

This review not only deepens our understanding of how technology interacts with sleep but also reinforces the need for a nuanced approach in managing sleep health in the modern age. For dental sleep professionals, staying updated with these insights ensures that our interventions are both effective and relevant, helping patients navigate their sleep challenges in a world where technology is ever-present.

*doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2024.101933

Business of Sleep

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8 Pro-Tips for Effective Communication with Medical Referrers

As dental sleep professionals, one of our critical roles is to liaise effectively with medical referrers. Building a strong, collaborative relationship with them is essential for ensuring comprehensive patient care. Here are eight pro-tips for nailing communication with medical referrers.

1. Preparation is Key

Before reaching out, make sure you have all the necessary information. This includes a detailed referral note and a copy of the patient's sleep study. Being prepared shows professionalism and respect for the referrer's time.

2. Find Their Preferred Communication Channel

Doctors have varied preferences for communication. Some may prefer secure fax, others email, or an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. Ask them directly about their preferred mode and adhere to it. This tailoring of communication method can significantly enhance the collaboration.

3. Direct Conversations Matter

Whenever possible, try to have a direct conversation with the referring physician. This could be via telemedicine or a traditional phone call. Direct communication allows for a more in-depth discussion about the case and builds a stronger professional relationship.

4. Embrace the SOAP Format

When compiling your reports, remember to follow the SOAP (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan) format. This structured approach is widely recognized in the medical field and helps ensure that all critical information is communicated clearly.

5. Precision and Personalization in Reporting

Ensure that your reports are precise and capture the patient’s voice. Tailor your notes to each case, ensuring they reflect the specific details and nuances of the patient's condition and your treatment plan.

6. Use Medical Terminology

While we are comfortable with dental jargon, remember to speak the language that medical professionals are familiar with. Using medical terminology helps ensure your message is clearly understood and demonstrates your expertise in dental sleep medicine.

7. Leverage the Role of Nurse Care Managers

Nurse care managers can be invaluable in facilitating communication. They often act as a bridge between different healthcare professionals and can help streamline the communication process. Building a rapport with them can be beneficial.

8. Document and Confirm Receipt

Always ensure that your documentation is received and acknowledged by the physician’s office. A follow-up to confirm receipt not only ensures that your communication has been successful but also demonstrates your commitment to collaborative patient care.

Conclusion

Improving communication with medical referrers is really important for dental sleep professionals. Follow these eight helpful tips to have better professional interactions, which will lead to better patient outcomes and stronger relationships with other healthcare professionals. Remember, clear and effective communication is just as important as the actual treatment in healthcare.

Previous Editions

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👉 Bite Registration Techniques

👉 OSA and Dementia

Something Sweet

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Industry Events

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Miscellaneous

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Video 4 of 6: Sleep Creativity and sleep

Did you know that stage two non-REM sleep, rich with sleep spindles, is crucial for improving motor skills. Even short naps can significantly boost learning efficiency by optimizing brain activity during rest.