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3D tech investment sees Sunderland's Ashford Orthodontics enter international partnership

Sunderland-based Ashford Orthodontics has partnered with ResMed, a global sleep treatment provider, to help tackle a major sleep disorder.

Using its 3D printing and scanning facilities, the orthodontic laboratory will work with ResMed’s Lyon-based production facility to supply 3D scans of patients’ mouths, which will enable the company to manufacture 3D printed NARVAL CC TM appliances for the treatment of sleep apnea and snoring.

People suffering from sleep apnea, of which snoring is a common symptom, can frequently stop breathing during sleep and the condition puts immense strain on major functions of the body.

A common treatment for the problem is CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure), which ResMed provides in the form of a face mask and small machine, which uses positive air pressure to maintain an open airway that regulates breathing.

The companies believe the new device, which holds the jaw in a forward position keeping the airways open and preventing the cessation of breathing during sleep, could also potentially save the NHS millions of pounds.

Ashford Orthodontics is also providing quality control services to ensure that the new appliances fit patients correctly before being dispatched to the clinicians.

Sean Thompson, Ashford Orthodontics Director explained: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Ashford Orthodontics, as well as for Sunderland, as it is another commendation from an industry leader that we have the skills and professionalism to embark on this project in the UK.

“Our investment in 3D technology has opened a lot of doors for us and we have created ten jobs over the last 12 months - we aim to do the same again this year.”

Ross Phillips, commercial director from ResMed, said: “We are delighted to be working with Ashford Orthodontics to bring this innovative technological advanced dental sleep solution to the UK.

“Ashford has an excellent reputation within the profession, and they are now backed up by a large body of research and science, and we are delighted that the team will be partnering with us.”

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