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This presentation has been developed with the goal of elevating the awareness of the role of dentistry in comprehensive health and function with an emphasis of the role of the trigeminal afferents in neurological presentations of both sleep and wakeful states of health and function.

Learning objectives: 

• The role of dentistry in affecting the trigeminal nerve afferents (input signals to the brain)
• The anatomy and influences of the trigeminal nerve
• The relationships between the trigeminal nerve and Locus Coeruleus (LC)
• The role of the LC, Ascending Reticular Activating System (ARAS) and Mesencephalic Trigeminal Nucleus (MTN/Me5) in sleep physiology
• In depth exploration of the relevance of the CAP stages of NREM sleep
• The influence of the dental provider in addressing the etiology of sleep apnea throughout the lifespan
• Review of the Andrisani publications on the etiology of Sleep Apnea as the CAP B phase of NREM sleep and the impact of a dysfunctional MTN on neurotransmitter depletion
• Discussion of airway obstruction as a contributing, but not causative factor in the etiology of sleep apnea
• CAP rates as an expression of disease and dysfunction
• The role of a dysfunctional MTN and the importance of early intervention
• Case study discussion of sleep data that utilizes masseter EMG readings to compare intensity of contraction related to heart rate, peripheral oxygenation, position and audio related data to assist in assessing and addressing complex patient care
• Age specific observations and implications for the treatment of patients throughout the lifespan

This presentation includes a discussion on the definition and relevance of neuroplasticity, especially as related to overcoming obstacles that occurred in early childhood. 

Learning objectives: 

• Definition and importance of neuroplasticity
• The role of trauma and transformation
• The first 1000 days of life and its role in neurological development

This presentation discusses the importance of movement on human development and function as well as techniques utilized to assess and address deficiencies and dysfunction.

Learning objectives: 

• Instruction on the primitive reflex system and its role in movement and human function
• Instruction on the Reflexercises that can stimulate the cranial nerves and integrate primitive reflexes through simple techniques and movements 
• Discussion on the role of oxytocin as an important factor the physiology of birth and sensory stimulation from the skin

This presentation instructs on many critical and relevant aspects of pediatric sleep as it impacts every aspect and stage of development. 

Learning Objectives: 

• Diagnostic tools available to screen and diagnose pediatric sleep dysfunction
• Discussion on the non-anatomical and metabolic aspects of sleep in the pediatric population
• Literature references to support the importance of identifying and addressing pediatric sleep and breathing dysfunction
• The similarities of and the differences between structural and functional limitations of airway, airflow and cerebral perfusion
• A discussion of correlation and causation related to etiology and expression of sleep related breathing dysfunction in the pediatric population
• Introduction of several available treatment options and how they relate to patient phenotype and potential clinical outcomes.

•  Laser assisted optogenetic neuromodulation and soft tissue remodeling
• Surgical interventions
• Dental and orthopedic interventions