Revista de Patologia Dentária e Medicina

Abstrato

An introduction to Biobloc Orthotropics

John Mew

The Biobloc Appliances are unique in encouraging forward growth of the face and aiming to create a subconscious closed mouth posture rather than move teeth. They are most effective at 6 to 8 years of age after which their effectiveness reduces until 25. However, some improvement can be achieved after that especially for Ear joint problems and sleep Apnoea. There are four stages, stage1 which widens the maxillary bone at 1mm per week gently softening the adjacent sutures at all ages allowing them to re-ossify in a wider forward position. At the same time, it lengthens the dental arch together with its supporting bone while allowing the tongue to maintain contact with the palate. The shelves on each side occlude with and widen the lower arch.

The stage2 retains the expansion during eating and active sports. The locks on the stage3 are adjusted to be uncomfortable if the child drops their jaw. Stage4 is used during the deciduous changeover and is the same as the stage3 but clasped on different teeth. The stage3 and 4 need to be worn 20 hours a day. There are various axillaries to train posture without the need for exercises.