An orthodontist promoting the controversial “mewing” technique has been struck off the dental register due to serious allegations of malpractice. Mike Mew, who claims that dental issues can be corrected through specific muscle exercises, came under scrutiny after a six-year-old patient suffered seizure-like episodes from his treatment. The General Dental Council (GDC) highlighted that Mew’s practices were misleading and lacked scientific support, resulting in his removal for public protection.
As reported by The Times, a disciplinary panel deemed Mew’s approach inappropriate, especially given its popularity on social media platforms like TikTok. His claims that creating tongue space could influence facial growth and expand brain capacity were found to be misleading and unsupported by evidence. Mew defended his methods, arguing that the GDC prioritised established orthodontic practices over patient safety.
Orthotropics and Associated Risks
Overview of Orthotropics
Orthotropics, developed by John Mew, suggests that many dental problems can be addressed through muscle exercises and physiotherapy instead of traditional orthodontic methods. This technique emphasises proper oral posture, particularly tongue positioning, to influence facial growth and dental alignment. Mike Mew has widely promoted this approach on social media.
Risks Associated with Orthotropics
Despite its popularity, orthotropics poses several risks when practised outside established medical guidelines:
- Lack of Scientific Support: Proponents of orthotropics often lack robust scientific evidence for their claims. The GDC has noted that many techniques used in orthotropics are not recognised as valid treatments within conventional dentistry, leading to potential misinformation among patients.
- Potential for Harmful Outcomes: Recent cases involving Mike Mew reveal that patients have suffered adverse effects from orthotropic treatments. For example, a six-year-old patient experienced seizure-like episodes after being fitted with various dental appliances as part of an orthotropic regimen, highlighting the dangers of unregulated practices.
- Misleading Information: Mew’s promotion of orthotropics included claims that creating “tongue space” could affect facial growth and even lead to brain expansion. Dental professionals deemed these assertions inappropriate and misleading, raising concerns about the psychological impact on patients pressured to pursue unproven methods.
- Regulatory Concerns: The GDC’s decision to strike Mike Mew off the dental register reflects broader worries about the integrity of practices like orthotropics. The council emphasised that public protection is paramount and that patients should receive care from qualified professionals adhering to established standards.
Significance of the Case
This case is crucial because if the GDC had failed in its ruling against Mew, it would have inadvertently legitimised orthotropics as a valid treatment modality. Such an outcome could have encouraged further adoption of unproven techniques in dentistry, potentially endangering patient safety and undermining confidence in established orthodontic practices.
In summary, while orthotropics may attract those seeking alternative solutions for dental issues, the associated risks—especially regarding efficacy and safety—demand careful consideration and scepticism from both patients and practitioners alike.