Sleep Apnea Testing at Your Dentist

Sleep Apnea Testing at Your Dentist

July 11, 2023

A home sleep test (HST), also known as a home sleep apnea test (HSAT), is a convenient and cost-effective alternative to an in-lab sleep study for diagnosing sleep apnea. Here’s how it generally works:

  • Equipment Setup: You will receive a portable sleep testing device from our dental office The device typically includes a small Ring that you wear on your hand and blue tooth the ring to the app on your phone and the app will track your breathing, lapses, oxygen deficit and blood pressure and respiration.
  • Instructions: You will be provided with detailed instructions on how to set up the equipment properly. T The instructions will guide you through the process, ensuring you understand how to use the device.
  • Sleep Monitoring: Before going to bed, you will wear the monitoring device as instructed. The device will record data while you sleep, monitoring parameters such as airflow, snoring, breathing effort, oxygen saturation, and body movement. Some devices may also track your sleep position.
  • Sleep Recording: During the night, the device will collect data related to your sleep patterns and potential breathing disturbances. The duration of the home sleep test may vary, but typically it lasts for one or two nights.
  • Return of Equipment: Once you have completed the sleep test, you will return the equipment to the sleep clinic or medical provider. They will then analyze the recorded data to assess whether you have sleep apnea or other sleep disorders.
  • Diagnosis and Follow-up: A sleep specialist will review the recorded data and provide a diagnosis based on the findings. If sleep apnea is detected, they will discuss treatment options with you, which may include continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), oral appliance therapy, lifestyle changes, or other interventions.

It’s important to note that while a home sleep test can provide valuable information, it may not be suitable for all individuals. Some cases may require an in-lab sleep study, particularly if there are additional underlying health conditions or complex sleep issues that need further evaluation. A sleep specialist will determine the most appropriate testing method based on your specific situation.


Dr. Sonya Reddy received her education at the prestigious NYU College Of Dentistry, where she also received special training in Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Reddy is a member of the American Cosmetic Dentists, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and a SMART certified and accredited member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology.