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The American Sleep and Breathing Academy conference, held on April 4th and 5th, delivered an exceptional experience for professionals committed to advancing the science and practice of sleep medicine. This year’s theme centered around comprehensive approaches to sleep apnea and the increasingly pivotal role of oral appliance therapy. With a strong clinical foundation and a forward-thinking mindset, the event reinforced the importance of collaboration between disciplines and offered practical tools to elevate patient care.
The lineup of doctor speakers was nothing short of extraordinary. Each presentation was delivered with clarity, clinical precision, and often, a dose of personal passion. The quality of teaching was consistently high, with an impressive balance between evidence-based research, hands-on experience, and real-world application. Presenters were approachable and engaging, sparking meaningful dialogue during Q&A sessions and throughout the networking opportunities.
The speaker roster reflected the depth and breadth of this integrative mission:
Dr. Timothy C. Adams offered decades of insight into cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry, blending aesthetics with function to elevate patient outcomes. His knowledge of occlusion and TMJ was foundational for both restorative and airway-focused clinicians.
Dr. Steve Carstensen, the founding President of ASBA, a national leader in dental sleep medicine, brought policy, research, and clinical excellence together. As an ADA consultant and textbook author, his contributions offered clear direction for the future of dental sleep care. Dr. Carstensen also received his Hall of Fame award for outstanding excellence.
Dr. Bahar Esmaili inspired with her holistic, heart-centered approach. Her emphasis on craniofacial pain, airway development, and empowerment reminded attendees of the systemic—and spiritual—nature of oral health.
Dr. Keith Gressell brought infectious energy and humor while exploring airway-focused general dentistry. His sessions highlighted the importance of empathy and integrated health care.
Dr. Toshi Hart delivered a well-researched and insightful presentation on pediatric airway development, laser therapy, and myofunctional interventions—balancing academic depth with clinical practicality. She played a key role in ensuring the event ran smoothly and provided invaluable support on behalf of the ASBA Diplomates.
Dr. Jeffrey Harrison introduced a tech-forward vision of dentistry. His insights into laser-assisted care and digital workflows showcased the future of efficient, precise, and patient-centered treatments.
Dr. Jerry Hu seamlessly integrates cosmetic and implant dentistry with sleep apnea therapy, championing accessible, aesthetic, and functional airway solutions—particularly for underserved communities. On Friday, April 4th, Dr. Hu, alongside Dr. Toshi Hart, co-taught the Intro to Sleep Course. A passionate supporter of ASBA Diplomates, Dr. Hu is always ready to lend a helping hand wherever he can.
Dr. Felix Liao challenged conventional thinking with his “Impaired Mouth Syndrome” framework, introducing his WholeHealth model that redefines dentistry as a form of systemic medicine. He also treated attendees to a nourishing golden broth rich in collagen precursors, paired with an organic, gluten-free, nutrient-packed breakfast bowl. The offering was a huge hit—everyone thoroughly enjoyed it!
Dr. Atul Malhotra, our keynote speaker and a board-certified sleep specialist, brought scientific rigor to the conference. His medical perspective reinforced the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in treating sleep-disordered breathing.
Patrick McKeown, internationally known for the Buteyko Method and Oxygen Advantage, delivered actionable breathwork strategies that bridge science, performance, and sleep quality.
Dr. Dar Radfar energized attendees with his mix of clinical expertise and motivational leadership, offering insights relevant to both clinical excellence and personal development.
Dr. Andrew Serrano, representing the next wave of airway-conscious orthodontists, delivered fresh, clinical perspectives on craniofacial development and pediatric sleep health.
Dr. Dave Singh, the mind behind the DNA appliance, presented pioneering work in epigenetic orthodontics, shifting our view of gene expression, function, and craniofacial form.
Dr. Hal Stewart, a respected leader in biologic and airway dentistry, grounded the event in mentorship, values, and systems thinking—reminding attendees of the power of legacy.
Dr. Andrew Valenzuela, a pediatric sleep expert, closed the conference with insight into AI, diagnostics, and childhood airway research—offering a glimpse into where medicine is headed.
Throughout the two-day event, a central focus was the evolving understanding and treatment of sleep apnea. From foundational science to patient-centered care, topics included:
Diagnosis & Differential Assessment: Enhanced methods for identifying obstructive sleep apnea and differentiating it from other sleep disorders.
Oral Appliance Therapy: The latest insights on appliance design, patient selection, long-term outcomes, and the integration of therapy into dental practice.
Systemic Implications: Discussions on how sleep apnea impacts cardiovascular health, metabolic function, and mental wellbeing.
Pediatric Perspectives: A strong emphasis on early intervention, airway growth, and the role of myofunctional therapy and orthodontics in children.
The 2025 American Sleep and Breathing Academy conference was not just an educational event—it was a call to action for clinicians to approach sleep medicine with deeper collaboration, empathy, and innovation. The distinguished speakers laid a roadmap for a future where dentistry, medicine, technology, and holistic health converge for the betterment of every patient. For attendees, this wasn’t just about learning—it was about transformation.
Written By:
Chris Kleiner