We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Professor John Mew, who died peacefully in 2025 at the age of 96. A man of remarkable intellect, courage, and conviction, John was not only one of the most visionary orthodontists of his generation — he was a pioneer, a philosopher of health, and a true force for change.
Widley considered a polymath in every sense of the word: a Formula 1 test driver, WWII dispatch rider, America’s Cup sailor, castle builder, Anthropologist, GB downhill skier, author, and father of three. But it was his work in craniofacial development and his lifelong commitment to better health outcomes that left his most lasting impact.
After qualifying in dentistry at University College London and initially training as a maxillofacial surgeon, John entered the world of orthodontics — only to discover a profession that, in his eyes, had lost its way. He became disillusioned with a system that focused on mechanically straightening teeth rather than understanding why faces grow incorrectly in the first place.
In response, he developed Biobloc Orthotropics — a revolutionary approach that placed early oral posture, breathing, and function at the centre of facial development. He believed that by guiding growth naturally in children, we could prevent crooked teeth, enhance facial aesthetics, reduce airway issues, and support long-term systemic health.
His ideas were far ahead of their time. They challenged powerful institutions and, as a result, he faced decades of criticism, professional sanction, and even the loss of his orthodontic license. But John never wavered. He continued to teach, publish, and speak — influencing a quiet revolution in dentistry and inspiring a global community of parents, professionals, and seekers of truth.
Today, his work is carried forward by his son, Dr. Mike Mew, and a growing international movement. The practice of "mewing" — now with over 30 billion views on TikTok — has ignited new public interest in his ideas, and sparked debate about the very foundations of orthodontic care.
John Mew was not just ahead of his time — he was a man unafraid to ask the uncomfortable questions others refused to face. In doing so, he made it possible for us all to envision a new standard of care: one based on prevention, function, and informed choice.
John Mew was never given a fair platform. He was judged without meaningful scientific engagement.
Now, we ask the world to help correct this.
- September 6th, London
- (A more private event for those who knew him will be held on the 7 th Sept, his 97 birthday, at his castle in Sussex)
Let us honour Professor John Mew not only with words, but with action.
His vision was one of hope, health, and possibility. Now it’s up to us to carry it forward..