Dental sleep medicine: coming of age.

Millions of people worldwide suffer diminished quality of life due to the effects of sleep-disordered breathing (snoring and obstructive sleep apnea). The worst cases can be life-threatening. Recently, the medical and dental professions have partnered to provide essential relief for many of those afflicted with this widespread malady. As medical sleep specialists reach out to include dentists on the "sleep team," it is incumbent on the dental professional to have sufficient education and training. Presently, there are a multitude of opportunities and venues available to the dentist who may have an interest in this burgeoning new field. However, caution is required during the learning experience because different sources of educational material may not be congruent with legal or professional ethics.