Orthotropics

Dr. John Mew of England developed orthotropics over 50 years ago, and he is world-renowned for his work.

From the Greek:

orqos  (orthos) = straight           trwpos (tropos) = growth

Basically, it is facial growth guidance.

Dr. Mew says that orthotropics tries "to correct the environmental problems by means of appliances that strengthen the jaw muscles and train the patients to keep their mouths closed in the expectation that this will encourage forward growth of the face instead of the more usual downward or vertical growth."


Why Orthotropics?

Four Reasons...

1.  A more natural and balanced appearance of the face.

Without Biobloc Orthotropics, this boy's genetic potential would not otherwise have been reached during growth.

2.  A better and more stable bite.

If oral posture and function are correct, the teeth stay straighter and the bite function is best.  Bringing the upper front teeth back to meet a lower jaw that is too far back only worsens the problem, and doesn't address the root problem (oral posture).

3.  The potential for a better airway, and presumably less risk for sleep apnea.

          

Airway Before Orthotropics        Airway After Orthotropics

A larger airway means less risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea, which means less risk for strokes, cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, hypertension, and a shortened life!!

4.  A healthier jaw joint.

When the lower jaw is not allowed to be in a healthy position, jaw joint problems like clicking and pain are more likely.  Many treatments for Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD) involve bringing the lower jaw forward.  Orthotropics is "preventive TMJ care."


Orthotropics is guiding the natural growth of the face from a young age to avoid mal-development.  "Biobloc Orthotropics" is another name for the same thing.

The two best teachers in the world for orthotropics, Dr. John Mew and Dr. Bill Hang, also have websites which are good resources for you.

Both Drs. Brian and Jack Hockel have studied with Drs. Mew and Hang, and Dr. Brian Hockel is one of only a few dentists in Northern California to provide this unique kind of care.  

 

 

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Brian J. Hockel, D.D.S.

2651 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

voice 925/934-3434    fax 925/934-4531     email: dds@hockel.com