Thursday, May 8, 2014

Scientists solver snoring using 3D printing

Notes from Dr. Norman Blumenstock

This oral device is not made in the USA as of yet nor have they applied for FDA approval. The Narval from Res-Med is a 3D printing appliance that I provide as one of many options.

 


Scientists solver snoring using 3D printingThe revolutionary 3D printing is now being used by scientists to create mouthpieces made of titanium which will assist snorers to breather much easily when they sleep. People who snore suffer from obstructive sleep apnoea which leads to disrupted sleep.

These mouthpieces work by diverting air around the teeth to the windpipe which is where it is actually required and then bypassing the obstructive mouth tissue which can cause blocking of normal breathing during sleep.


CSIRO's John Barnes says that these can be made especially effective since 3D printing allows to create custom fitted mouthpieces for every patient.

He says that all humans have different faces with different sizes and shapes of jaw. He agrees that it is indeed a revolution that they can now make customised mouthpieces which are any day more effective than any earlier device or therapy.

He says that the patient just needs to bite into it and it fits accurately. These titanium mouthpieces made using 3D printing are coated in medical-grade plastic which looks like a large mouthguards with a small spout which looks like a duckbill which pokes through the lips.