I’m writing to share my personal and professional journey with the American Sleep and Breathing Academy (ASBA), and to express just how much this organization has meant to me, both as a dentist and as a person.
I first heard about the ASBA through Jon Caulfield, not long after I joined VIVOS. Jon and I connected right away—he’s an incredible guy and a fellow hockey lover. During one of our early conversations, he told me about Gergen’s Orthodontic Lab, emphasizing its unmatched quality. He said, “You want to use Gergen’s, and you should join the ASBA.” He spoke passionately about the Academy’s credibility and the meaningful changes it’s driving in the field of sleep medicine. That was the beginning of something truly transformative for my practice and my career.
What I love most about being an ASBA member is the opportunity. Because of my involvement, I now get to work directly with the NFL right here in Florida. We recently did a screening and I gained 40 new patients—professional ball players—with no lab bill. Thanks to David Gergen, who manages everything on that front along with Andre Collins the Executive Director of the NFLPA, I simply do the work and get a check in the mail. Cleanings are fully covered through MetLife, the players pay nothing, and everyone wins. It’s a great system that benefits everyone involved.
One of the most meaningful moments I’ve had with the ASBA was spending time with Jon Caulfield. We were supposed to catch a hockey game live, but opted for a sports bar instead—saving a few bucks and enjoying dinner and drinks together. It was simple, genuine, and truly memorable. That kind of authentic connection is rare. Jon, David Gergen, and even David’s son Johnny are all top-notch human beings. They remind me of my own father-son relationship. The whole ASBA organization feels like a family—solid, helpful, and always willing to lift one another up.
The training I’ve received through the ASBA is second to none. I mean it when I say that nobody trains like the ASBA does. I’d confidently stack our doctors up against anyone in the country. The level of education and insight I’ve gained here is outstanding, and I count myself and Jon among the best trained in this field—not out of ego, but out of deep respect for what we’ve been taught and how it's shaped our practices.
Since joining, my network has grown exponentially. The sleep program has quadrupled in scale while maintaining the highest standards. ASBA emphasizes quality, patient follow-up, and using only the best equipment. It’s practical, cost-effective, and success-driven. They’re not just selling devices—they’re building sustainable practices.
Looking forward, I believe the ASBA is shaping the future of sleep medicine and airway care in a powerful way. David Gergen has worked with top-tier government officials and national figures, and his reach continues to grow. Leaders like Tim Adams are pushing innovation with tools like the Cricket Appliance—which I’ll be learning more about at the upcoming Study Club in May. I can’t wait to start using the Cricket in my own practice to help patients find relief from pain and sleep disorders. This is real progress in action.
To any colleague on the fence about joining—don’t wait. It’s a no-brainer. If you’re serious about entering sleep medicine, start with the ASBA. They will guide you, support you, and help you make smart, informed decisions that save you time, money, and headaches. You’ll sidestep many of the early pitfalls and set yourself up for success from day one.
With gratitude,
Dr. Paul Eckstein, DDS
