Dentist Loses License Over Controversial “Mewing” Techniques

The General Dental Council (GDC) has removed Dr Mike Mew from the dental register following a misconduct hearing, according to reporting from The Independent. The orthodontist, known for his “mewing” techniques that have garnered over two billion views on TikTok and featured in a Netflix documentary, was deemed a “risk to public safety” by the regulatory body.

Patient Case That Prompted Investigation

The case centered on the treatment of a six-year-old patient in 2018, who reportedly experienced “seizure-like episodes” while undergoing Dr Mew’s treatment protocol. According to testimony from Aliyah Janmohamed, a qualified dentist who worked at Dr Mew’s Purley clinic, the young patient experienced significant difficulties with the prescribed devices. “Sometimes Patient B has post-traumatic episodes following past medical interventions,” Janmohamed stated, noting that these episodes would occur if “pushed too far.”

Treatment Protocol and Concerns

The treatment, which carried a £12,500 price tag for 36 months, involved multiple orthodontic devices that required extensive daily wear. Evidence presented at the tribunal indicated that the young patient struggled to maintain the prescribed wearing schedule, which included head and neck gear for eight hours daily, an “expansion appliance” for 18 hours, and additional removable appliances that could only be removed during tooth brushing.

Professional Response and Defense

Dr Mew has strongly defended his methods, stating: “The General Dental Council has offered as much scientific evidence for their approach as the Pope did in convicting Galileo for saying that the Earth revolved around the Sun.” He further alleged that “the GDC is more concerned about protecting the lucrative orthodontic industry than protecting children from harm.”

Regulatory Context

The Independent reports that while Mews Orthoptropics has gained acceptance in some countries, it lacks recognition from both the NHS and GDC. Notably, Dr Mew is reported to be the sole Orthotropic practitioner in the UK. Following the tribunal’s findings, which proved all but one allegation, an immediate suspension order was implemented “for the protection of the public.”

Additional Patient Cases

The tribunal also examined another case involving a patient who experienced complications, including what was described as “a traumatic ulcer” following treatment. Despite these concerns, The Independent notes that some patients continue to support Dr Mew’s methods, with one patient’s family maintaining their endorsement of his treatment approach despite the regulatory action.