Dentist with roots in region breaks new ground in sleep apnea research

Chandigarh, June 30, 2024: Forty-Eight Old(48) Dr. Sumir Gandhi, a dentist with roots in the region , has made a significant stride in the field of dental research, particularly in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea(OSA).

Dr. Gandhi, who received his dental education from the Government Dental College in Amritsar and subsequently worked at Christian Dental College, CMC Ludhiana, from 2003 to 2022, has recently relocated to the United States. Despite being based in the United States, Dr. Sumir Gandhi remains a staunch advocate for advancing dental research in India.

Dr. Sumir's groundbreaking research has demonstrated the efficacy of Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA) in treating obstructive sleep apnea(OSA), a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. This condition  has become increasingly prevalent and poses significant health risks. In MMA, the bones of the upper and lower jaw are repositioned to relieve airway obstruction.

Dr Sumir Gandhi said, "We checked things like how often people stopped breathing during sleep, how sleepy they felt during the day, and other factors like weight. We found that MMA made a big difference in these measures after the surgery. We also found that how severe the OSA was before surgery affected how well MMA worked. Overall, we concluded that MMA is a very successful treatment for OSA."

It is to be noted that Dr. Sumir's work has been pivotal in showcasing how dental interventions can play a critical role in managing and mitigating the dangers associated with sleep apnea. This research has been featured in numerous esteemed dental journals, highlighting its importance and impact on the global dental community.

However, Dr. Sumir pointed out that a critical issue that plagues dental  research in India is the lack of adequate funding.   “While medical research often receives substantial financial support, dental research frequently lags behind due to insufficient funding. This disparity hampers the potential for groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in dental health that could benefit millions,” he said.  

Dr. Sumir urged the government and private sector to recognize and address this gap, advocating for increased investment in dental research to unlock the vast potential within this field.

In addition to his work on sleep apnea, Dr Gandhi has also contributed to COVID-19 research, underscoring the versatility and depth of his expertise. His COVID-19 research further emphasizes the role of dental professionals in addressing broader health challenges, particularly during unprecedented global health crises.

Dr. Sumir's work stands as a testament to the remarkable achievements that can be realized when dedicated research is supported and nurtured. His journey from the region to becoming a renowned figure in dental research at a global platform highlights the importance of continued investment in this vital field.