New Australian device to treat sleep apnoea
SomnoMed, an Australian company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, has developed a breakthrough medical device to treat successfully snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea.
Following an extensive research and development program, SomnoMed and a team of doctors and dentists have invented a mandibular advancement splint (MAS). The oral device positions the lower jaw (mandible) slightly forward of its usual position, which has the effect of keeping the airway open and preventing snoring.
The device consists of two separate acrylic plates and is custom made to provide a perfect fit over the teeth, ensuring comfort and durability for the wearer.
The Somnomed MAS™ is custom fitted and made for each patient after they visit their doctor and dentist, and is already being used by more than 5,000 snorers across Australia and the US.
Snoring is estimated to affect more than 30 per cent of Australia’s adult population. Snoring can also be a sign of obstructive sleep apnoea, which causes lack of deep sleep and has been associated with a range of serious health problems, such as increased risk of stroke.
The price of the Somnomed MAS™ and associated clinical services is set by the customer’s dentist, and may vary depending on their individual circumstances. Typically, the cost is around $1,000.
Most of the private dental health funds provide varying levels of rebate to patients, according to the level of cover – usually around $450. The Somnomed MAS™ must be prescribed by a medical practitioner. The patient is then referred to a dentist for a fitting.
