Dental Sleep Medicine Insider May 2016 | Page 24

DO YOUR DEVICES DAVID WALTON ENDURE? An interview between David Walton, of Respire Medical, and Dr. Mamal Rahimi, a user of the Endurance Framework device line from Respire Medical. Dr. Mamal Rahimi received his undergraduate degree at UCLA and earned his dental degree at University of Pacific School of Dentistry. He has been in comprehensive dentistry with a special attention to TMJ and sleep apnea disorders. David Walton: What drew you to the Endurance Framework (EF) Device? Dr. Mamal Rahimi: When I saw the ad for the appliance, I thought, “How fitting! The more tongue space, the better.” The strength behind it is a plus. The Respire Blue Standard appliance is 10x better than others like it in the market already. The framework on the EF makes it even better. The EF provides everything a traditional dorsal fin design allows, along with added strength and more space. I’m all about the space. David Walton: What have you found to be the best way to take records for appliances? Dr. Mamal Rahimi: I mainly use the Airway Metrics System, and PVS material when taking impressions. It’s nice DR. MAMAL RAHIMI because Respire even pours the models at no charge. noticed the change, saying, “Whoa, what a difference!” David Walton: For what types of patients is the Endurance Framework indicated? David Walton: All that metal in the device though….do patients ever push back about wearing it? Dr. Mamal Rahimi: I use it for just about every patient that doesn’t have pending restorative work. It’s easy to seat on anyone and patients get more space. More tongue room equals more effective- ness and more comfort. I had a patient who was already using the standard Respire Blue Series, and was perfectly happy, however I requested an order for a new Respire Blue Endurance Framework device to see what the advantage was. When the appliance was seated, right away the patient Dr. Mamal Rahimi: When patients express a concern about the chrome framework, I explain how light it feels in the mouth and highlight its durability. I remind them that this device will last and they won’t have to pay for a new one any time soon. They immediately become enthused about wearing one and notice the benefits right away. The framework is easier to clean as well. David Walton: What percentage of your cases would you say are Endurance Framework cases? Dr. Mamal Rahimi: Currently about 70% of my patients are using Respire Blue Endurance Framework appliances. I’m slowly transitioning into solely using the EF appliance. It works. It’s durable, easy to seat and comfortable. What else do you need?