What is the Biobloc Orthotropic Appliance?
Biobloc Appliance
The Biobloc appliance is a removable orthotropic device that looks like a retainer. The Biobloc can straighten teeth and improve the jawline by slowly stimulating the jaws to grow larger. The treatment is endorsed by Dr. Mike Mew and creates more room in the mouth so teeth fit better and are less crooked. The Biobloc can stimulate the jaws to grow wider, taller and more forward. As the upper jaw grows forward, it allows more space for the mandible to move forward and grow wider. As the lower jaw moves forward, it increases the vertical height of the mouth and creates more volume. The process also decreases facial elongation. The result is more room in the mouth and nasal passageways, straighter teeth and better facial profile. Our Biobloc therapy helps our patients, not only have a better smile, but also sleep, breathe and posture in a healthier way. Dr Adams uses the Biobloc and many other adult expanders and orthodontic appliances for children at the TMJ Sleep and Breathe Center.
Biobloc and other expanders for kids and Adults
Dr. John Mew and Dr Mike Mew in the Documentary, “Open Wide”
Open-Wide, a documentary about orthotropics, Mewing and Dr John and Mike Mew. The truth usually lies somewhere between what he said and she said, so we will let you be the judge. The world may not know for sure for years before the research never comes out. The British dentist licensing agency took Dr. John Mews license away years ago for bad mouthing orthodontics and saying unprofessional things about traditional orthodontics. Now the same board is hot to trot to take Dr. Mike Mews license away. Is the profession or orthodontics attempting to hide something or are the Mews really selling snake oil?
How the Biobloc works with Mewing
The Biobloc works with biological forces. Dr. Mike Mew recommends keeping your mouth closed and keeping your tongue on the palate. Dr. Mew recommends what he calls “Mewing” which is a form of tongue and mouth exercises similar to some Myofunctional Therapy exercises. The Biobloc is only worn at night and is taken out during the day. It is not worn while eating. Oral hygiene is very easy since the appliance is removable. The treatment does not hurt because expansion pressure is very light compared to braces and conventional orthodontics. As long as the appliance is worn every night, designed properly and adjusted as advised, the treatment will go as planned. Biobloc Orthotropics represents a transformative approach to orthodontics that serves a dual purpose: realigning teeth and structuring facial and jaw growth. By fostering healthy jaw development, Biobloc holds particular promise for young patients. This article will explain the benefits and methods of Biobloc, highlighting why early treatment is crucial.
Key Takeaways
- Biobloc Orthotropics is a comprehensive treatment that promotes forward facial growth, broader smiles, and better jaw health by altering oral posture and guiding skeletal development.
- The Biobloc system uses a series of orthodontic appliances to expand and advance the maxillary anterior teeth, and aims to instill proper oral habits, such as correct tongue posture and nasal breathing, for improved facial structure.
- Ideal for young patients, ideally under the age of 9, Biobloc treatment should be implemented through consistent wear and routine adjustments, but it requires a realistic approach due to its technique-sensitive nature and potential side effects.
Understanding Biobloc Orthotropics
At the heart of this transformative experience is Biobloc Orthotropics, a pioneering treatment method formulated by John Mew. This approach stands out by:
- Encouraging forward growth of the face
- Fostering a broader smile
- Nurturing healthier jaw joints
- Creating a more generous airway
Biobloc Orthotropics doesn’t merely align teeth; it takes a holistic view, correcting oral posture to redirect facial growth and bettering the whole facial structure. Removable appliances and muscle training are pivotal to this method, as they alter soft tissue behavior and the oral environment, influencing skeletal development and improving tooth positioning.
The Philosophy Behind Biobloc
The philosophy that fuels Biobloc Orthotropics is rooted in the idea that misaligned teeth are often the result of poor oral posture. However, through the proper guidance of jaw growth, this can be corrected. Traditional orthodontic treatments might focus on the teeth alone, but Biobloc delves deeper. It addresses the bad oral habits that restrict the upper jaw’s growth potential, causing it to become narrow and retracted, and the lower jaw to grow downwards and towards the neck.
The appliances used in this method are ingeniously designed to posture the mandible forward and prevent mandibular retrusion, establishing correct oral posture and habits.
Components of the Biobloc System
The Biobloc system is a symphony of removable orthodontic appliances, each playing a critical role in the therapy. These are designed to be worn full-time, featuring orthopedic and functional elements to expand and advance the maxillary anterior teeth. For example, the Biobloc Stage 1 appliance is a maestro at correcting severe dental arch constrictions, initiating transverse growth and better alignment of incisor teeth. Not only does it efficiently expand the upper arch, but it also brings incisors closer together for a harmonious smile. These appliances are not static; they evolve with the patient’s needs, as practitioners adjust them, such as by manipulating the expansion screw, to guide the development of the upper and lower jaws. The result? An improved overall jaw structure that can create enough space for teeth to align properly, often negating the need for extracting teeth in the future.
The Biobloc Approach to Jaw Development
Biobloc Orthotropics presents a unique approach to jaw development, focusing on:
- Widening the upper jaw to allow for proper tongue positioning
- Redirecting the development of the jaw anteriorly and horizontally
- Contributing to a balanced facial structure and better oral posture
This is more than just an adjustment; it’s a journey towards a correct resting posture for the tongue and facilitating nasal breathing. The ultimate goal is to achieve a balanced facial structure and better oral posture.
Using adjustable appliances like Biobloc or ADAPT-LGR, the lower jaw is nudged forward, aligning it more effectively with each adjustment throughout the treatment.
Encouraging Proper Jaw Habits
Orthotropic treatment with Biobloc is akin to a dance, where patients are guided through steps to maintain proper oral habits, such as a closed-mouth posture at rest. Like learning a new choreography, patients are trained to embrace essential habits:
- Proper tongue resting posture
- Swallowing habits
- Nasal breathing
- Overall good breathing dynamics
These habits are foundational to the Biobloc Orthotropics guides.
To support natural oral function during Biobloc treatment, patients are advised to use the Myobrace appliance for one hour daily, alternating with the Biobloc appliance, ensuring the dance is performed with grace and ease.
Achieving Desired Facial Dimensions
The quest for forward facial growth is not just a vanity project but a strategic move towards:
- an aesthetically pleasing angular profile
- healthier jaw joints
- a larger airway
- a broader smile
Biobloc Orthotropics is tailored to enhance facial balance by promoting this forward development of the jaw, addressing the tendency of downward growth which often results in restriction. By guiding soft tissue changes and bone growth towards a balanced profile at an angle of approximately 45 degrees, Biobloc contributes to desirable facial dimensions.
Routine adjustments, such as turning the Biobloc screw for arch expansion, are part of the treatment’s choreography, performed at intervals prescribed by the orthotropic specialist.
Ideal Candidates for Biobloc Treatment
Who stands to benefit the most from this revolutionary approach? Biobloc Orthotropics is most effective when started at a tender age, ideally under 9 years old, to harness a child’s natural growth potential and guide the jaws’ proper development. Addressing various conditions in young patients, such as severe arch restrictions, overjets, and complications from poor oral posture like sleep apnea, earaches, headaches, and mouth breathing, Biobloc treatment can set the stage for a lifetime of better health and aesthetics.
Implementing the Biobloc Treatment Plan
The implementation of the Biobloc treatment plan requires dedication and commitment for transformative results. Here are the key steps involved:
- The treatment typically spans four to six months to achieve the necessary arch development.
- Strict adherence to prescribed routines is essential during this time.
- Removing the appliance for oral hygiene maintenance is important.
- Ensuring appropriate retention is crucial for long-term success.
Success in Biobloc treatment is not a solo act; it demands a duet of patience and compliance from both the patient and the practitioner.
Step-by-Step Instructions
To embark on the Biobloc journey, patients must adhere to a detailed script of instructions, akin to learning lines for a pivotal role. The removable Biobloc appliance must be worn 24 hours a day for several months, assisting in developing the upper jaw and positioning the upper front teeth. As with any performance, timing is everything. Patients must turn the expansion screw a quarter turn every 24 hours until the desired arch development is reached and attend follow-up visits every two to four weeks for crucial adjustments.
For those seeking direction, comprehensive guides on using Biobloc are available for download, offering a PDF format script to ensure a flawless performance.
Monitoring Progress and Adjustments
The full correction of jaw position with Biobloc is typically achieved within a 6-8 month timeframe, but this can vary depending on the severity of the initial jaw misalignment. Like a conductor ensuring each musician is in harmony, patient cooperation is crucial in attaining the expected results within the projected timeline.
Regular check-ups with an orthotropic specialist are not just appointments; they are essential touchpoints to ensure that the Biobloc treatment is on track and making the desired progress.
Potential Effects and Considerations of Biobloc
While Biobloc Orthotropics offers transformative potential, it is important to approach it with a discerning eye. Improper use of Biobloc appliances can lead to adverse effects, underscoring the importance of professional training in orthotropics.
Furthermore, due to limited research, there are controversies surrounding its overall effectiveness, with some studies suggesting that the changes produced by orthotropics are not significantly different from normal facial development or treatments using other functional appliances of a particular type.
Managing Expectations
Setting sail on the Biobloc journey, it is essential to chart a course with realistic expectations. Biobloc treatment is designed to:
- Modify and improve facial growth and development
- Achieve long-term results that stand the test of time
- Eliminate the need for retainers
- Avoid tooth extraction
Studies have shown that this treatment can lead to more horizontal facial development and a balanced facial profile by influencing the growth of facial soft tissue components.
Handling Side Effects
Correctly playing the Biobloc symphony requires precision; any misstep, such as incorrect usage of the appliances, can lead to discomfort and difficulty with oral functions. The rapid expansion that Biobloc appliances are designed for can be challenging for patients, making the treatment very technique-sensitive.
To manage issues with oral functions during the use of Biobloc Stage 1, alternating with a Myobrace appliance while awake can offer periods of relief.
Resources and Support for Biobloc Users
Embarking on the Biobloc journey is made easier with the wealth of resources at one’s disposal. From instructional videos to detailed user guides, patients and practitioners have access to a treasure trove of information to properly use and maintain Biobloc appliances.
Additionally, dedicated support teams stand ready to assist with any queries or concerns, ensuring no question goes unanswered.
Educational Material for Patients
For patients, the Biobloc voyage is supported by a plethora of online educational resources. Downloadable instructions and case studies shed light on the nuances of appliance use. Tutorials for instruments such as the Hang Expander and LGR Appliance provide specific guidance integral to the treatment’s success.
Furthermore, orthotropic educational centers offer a global suite of courses for dental professionals, enriching their understanding and broadening their treatment options within orthotropics.
Training Options for Practitioners
For practitioners aspiring to orchestrate the Biobloc method, training options abound. Foundational courses for beginners lay the groundwork, while advanced techniques for experienced clinicians elevate their expertise. Educational centers offering orthotropic training provide a global platform for dentists, Orthotropists, and Orthodontists to delve into the intricacies of natural growth guidance.
Each course offers tailored support to assist professionals on their learning journey, whether they are just starting out or seeking to refine their skills.
Summary
In summation, Biobloc Orthotropics represents a paradigm shift in facial development and orthodontic treatment. From its philosophy and intricate components to its approach to jaw development and comprehensive treatment plans, Biobloc offers a holistic solution to jaw misalignment and poor oral posture. While the journey requires commitment and precise adherence to treatment, the potential for transformative results is immense. As we conclude this exploration, may you feel inspired to delve deeper into the possibilities that Biobloc presents, for it is not just a treatment but a pathway to enhanced well-being and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age is Biobloc Orthotropics treatment most effective?
Biobloc Orthotropics treatment is most effective when started at an early age, ideally under 9 years old, to harness a child’s natural growth potential and promote proper jaw development.
Can Biobloc Orthotropics eliminate the need for future dental treatments?
Yes, Biobloc treatment aims to achieve long-term results without the need for future dental treatments, including retainers and tooth extraction.
How long does Biobloc treatment typically take?
Biobloc treatment typically takes 6-8 months for full correction of jaw position, but timelines can vary based on the initial severity of misalignment and patient cooperation.
Are there any side effects associated with Biobloc appliances?
Yes, Biobloc appliances can cause discomfort and difficulty with oral functions if not used properly, so it’s important to seek professional guidance during treatment.
What resources are available for patients and practitioners interested in Biobloc Orthotropics?
Patients and practitioners interested in Biobloc Orthotropics can find resources such as instructional videos, user guides, educational courses, and dedicated support teams to ensure successful treatment. These resources are designed to provide comprehensive support and guidance for both patients and practitioners.
What is our Biobloc Therapy About?
Drs Gary Adams and Viet Le welcome you to our practice. If you are looking for information about the Biobloc appliance therapy, you have found the right place. Many of our patients are children who have crowded teeth, tied tongues, and mouth breathing problems. Some also have posture and sleep disordered breathing issues. We integrate orthodontic expanders (such as Biobloc), chiropractic services, breathing exercises and myofunctional or tongue correction therapy. Our therapy helps our patients have a straighter smile, sleep better and live a pain-free and healthier life. We are located in Vienna Virginia near Tysons Corner and just outside of Washington DC.
Objectives of Biobloc Appliance Treatment:
- Improve facial growth and profile
- Improve smile
- Optimize tongue function
- Establish healthy breathing patterns
- Create a good bite
- Balance upper and lower jaw relationships
- Establish healthy posture
Why Do Teeth Grow-in Crooked?
Teeth become crooked because of poor tongue function, unhealthy mouth breathing patterns and a diet consisting of foods that are too soft. This is why kids mouths and faces do not grow large enough for all their teeth to fit and bite properly. If tongue and breathing problems are not corrected, your child will fall behind again in their development 1-2 years after appliance therapy. That is right, the teeth will get crowded and crooked all over again, if the root cause of developmental problems are not corrected. Kids continue to grow till at least the age of 19.
Why Jaws and Faces Under Develop?
Poor tongue movement is the root cause of underdevelopment of the face. Tongue pressure naturally expands the mouth and lower part of the face. Tongue ties cause diminished range of motion of the tongue. The tongue does not move out far enough and cannot reach the palate easily. Tied tongues often get pointy and curl down when extended out of the mouth. There is a sequential cause and effect relationship in the following order:
- Tongue Tie
- Poor Tongue Function
- Under Development of the Palate and Nasal Passageways
- Poor Nasal Breathing
- Mouth Breathing
How to Release Tongue Ties
Tongues can be untied with a soft tissue laser. It is very quick, mostly painless and there is not bleeding. The dentist needs to verify the tongue is functioning correctly at the time of the procedure. Untying the tongue alone is not enough. The procedure is called a “functional tongue untie.”
What is Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy is basically tongue physical therapy. Tongue exercises to achieve healthy movements. If tongue therapy and exercises are done with a functional untie procedure, tongue reattachment is less than 20%. Without myofunctional therapy, tongue reattachment is closer to 80%.
How to Correct Mouth Breathing Patterns
- Remove all Tongue Ties
- Myofunctional Therapy
- Orthodontic Expanders to correct jaw and facial under growth
- Breathing Exercises to restore proper nasal breathing patterns
- Posture Therapy with a chiropractor or qualified PT
What is our Most Popular Kids Appliance?
The Schwarz appliance is our most popular orthodontic appliance for children. We believe in the Biobloc, but the Schwarz is more versatile and can sometimes save the patient from having to do multiple rounds of orthodontic treatment. The Schwartz is very easy to tolerate and it only needs to be worn at night. Unlike braces and other fixed expanders, the appliance does not get in the way of daily activities and is not worn during meal time. The appliance does not hurt when being adjusted.
Appliances We use for Children
- ALF appliance
- Schwarz
- Myobrace
- Twin Block
- Crozat
- Healthy Start
What are Orthodontic Expansion Appliances?
We prefer the use of the term “growth appliances.” They are small retainer-like devices that promote growth of the jaws. The goal is to grow the jaws into a more optimal size and shape. Growth appliances work by applying a light force in the direction the jaws need to grow. They are not mechanical devices and do not cause pain. The appliance mimics tongue pressure and encourages proper tongue position. Appliance therapy is synergistic with swallowing and tongue movement.
How Long Does Biobloc Therapy Last?
Most kids only need to wear the appliances at night for 6-9 months during treatment. The appliances are usually not worn during the day or while eating. The patient is usually seen in the office every 5-7 weeks. During the office visits we will evaluate the growth, adjust the appliances and verify patient compliance. Treatment is usually performed between the ages of 5 and15 years of age.