Innovations in Dental Sleep Medicine with Sonnie Bocala

Dr. Michael Bennett hosts Sonnie Bocala on The More Than Teeth Podcast. They discuss their long friendship and collaboration in treating patients with pain and sleep disorders. Sonnie, owner of Apex Dental Sleep Lab, shares insights into his work on FDA-cleared oral sleep appliances and innovations in dental sleep medicine. Dr. Bennett recounts a recent experience with his father-in-law's cardiac and sleep disorders, emphasizing the importance of advocating for sleep health. They discuss the evolution and future of dental sleep technology, including less cumbersome appliances and the integration of AI and 3D printing. The episode highlights the growing collaboration between dentists and MDs, and the potential for hybrid clear aligner and EMA systems to improve patient outcomes.

01:06 Sonnie's Background and Expertise

01:47 A Personal Story: Father-in-Law's Medical Journey

03:42 The Importance of Sleep in Medical Treatment

07:19 Sonnie's Brother's Heart Attack and Sleep Apnea

09:10 Innovations in Dental Sleep Medicine

13:52 Advancements in Oral Appliances

16:08 Empowering Dentists with New Technology

20:12 Addressing Cranial Distortions and Postural Changes

20:34 Introduction to Hybrid Clear Aligner Systems

20:48 Combining Aligners with Airway Maintenance

21:24 Challenges and Solutions in Current Aligners

22:43 Direct to Print: The Future of Aligners

23:18 Clinical Trials and FDA Approval

25:00 Practical Applications and Future Prospects

26:14 Business Models for Dental Practices

31:45 Collaboration Between Dentists and MDs

36:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

If you found this episode valuable, share it with a colleague or friend who wants to breathe better, sleep deeper, and live healthier. Your support helps us expand the conversation around airway-focused care and whole-body wellness.

Together, we can move dentistry beyond the chair.

Michael Bennett, DDS, PhD

Board-Certified Dentist | Healthcare Professions Educator

Empowering total health through airway-focused dentistry

Advanced Dental Care – Dr. Bennett’s clinical practice and patient-centered services

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About Guest: Sonnie Bocala was born into a family with five generations of 16 Dentists, so it wasn’t a surprise when he decided to pursue the same career path. He graduated from San Diego State University in 2004 with a Bachelors in Cellular Molecular Micro-Biology. While awaiting acceptance to dental school he began working for a private practice as a dental assistant. Very quickly Sonnie found his passion in the dental lab side of the industry and assumed the position as Director of International Lab Certification for TMJ and Sleep Research International from 2004-2016. He opened T & S Dental Lab, which he owned and operated from 2006-2016. This is where he began his journey that has led him to where he is today; having lectured internationally on TMJ, Sleep Therapy and oral appliance designs, and trained and certified international dental labs on the fabrication of TMJ orthotics. Currently, Sonnie is the President and owner of Apex Dental Sleep Lab, President of Sketchpad Innovations, Developer and Patent holder of Kava Mandibular Advancement device and a manufacturing consultant to Oravan OSA.