Calgary patients ask, "What is BioBloc Orthotropics?"

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Orthotropics may sound like a new concept in dentistry or be confused with orthodontics; however, the treatment was developed in 1966. The word is derived from the Greek language, ortho, meaning correct or straight, and tropos, meaning growth. Orthotropics, therefore, embraces the notion that malocclusion - a misalignment of the jaws - is a biological issue that should be addressed by focusing on forward growth of the jaws for correct alignment.

This is a different approach from orthodontics, which deals with straightening the teeth. Malocclusion or protruding, crowded, or crooked teeth may occur for many reasons. If jaw alignment or abnormal growth of the jawbone is the cause, underlying issues such as headaches, facial structure, and constricted breathing may be experienced.

Children's faces and jawbones develop and grow between 3 and 12 years of age. This is the ideal age range to have a child screened for facial balance and posture, which refers to the positioning of the jaws. Symptoms which may indicate that a child's facial posture is not growing appropriately may include:

• Breathing through the mouth
• Gummy smile
• Snoring
• Signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Grinding jaws or teeth
• Speech disorders
• Thumb sucking
• Delayed bed wetting

At Dr. Robertson and Redd Dental Health, located in Calgary, AB, and serving areas such as Canmore, Red Deer, and Airdrie, Dr. Kindal Robertson is an experienced holistic doctor of dental surgery (DDS) who emphasizes whole body health and wellness in his approach to professional dental care.

Dr. Robertson and his colleague, Dr. James Redd are pleased to offer BioBloc Orthotropics technology and treatment for children with alignment problems. Professional screening includes the following assessment:

• Facial posture and balance
• Is the tongue appropriately resting on the roof of the mouth?
• Do the lips and teeth align properly?

Proper tongue placement and symmetrical alignment of the teeth and lips indicate that the jaws are growing normally. If misalignment is detected, BioBloc Orthotropics may be recommended to guide the jaw development forward and upward into the ideal oral posture. A personalized treatment plan will include two phases in which removable devices gradually move the jaws into optimal alignment.

To learn more about BioBloc Orthotropics at Dr. Robertson and Redd Dental Health, contact our friendly dental professionals at today or request an appointment online. Our practice is conveniently located at #208-3604 52nd Avenue NW, Calgary, AB.