The foundation of modern orthodontic practice — from Dr. Robert Ricketts' pioneering work to the establishment of FMBO.
Dr. Robert M. Ricketts was one of the most influential orthodontists of the 20th century. His pioneering work in cephalometrics, arch development, and facial aesthetics revolutionized orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning, establishing principles that continue to guide the profession today.
Born in 1926, Dr. Ricketts began his journey in orthodontics at the University of Illinois Chicago, where he trained under Drs. Allan Brodie and William Downs — two giants in the field who pioneered cephalometric radiography. Building upon their foundational work, Dr. Ricketts developed what would become known as Bioprogressive Therapy, a comprehensive philosophy that emphasized evidence-based diagnosis and patient-centered treatment.
The evolution of Bioprogressive Orthodontics through decades of innovation and education.
Dr. R.M. Ricketts begins his specialty training in orthodontics at the University of Illinois Chicago under the direction of Drs. Allan Brodie and William Downs.
Dr. Ricketts publishes his initial research on cephalometric analysis, introducing concepts that would become fundamental to modern orthodontic diagnosis.
RMO-Data Services is established to provide diagnostic support to orthodontic professionals, offering comprehensive cephalometric analysis and treatment planning services.
Introduction of the Visual Treatment Objective methodology, allowing clinicians to visualize treatment outcomes and communicate expected results to patients.
Dr. Ricketts formalizes the Bioprogressive Therapy Philosophy, emphasizing a holistic approach to orthodontic treatment that addresses functional, aesthetic, and skeletal considerations.
Advanced growth prediction modeling techniques are developed, enabling clinicians to forecast treatment outcomes through maturity with greater accuracy.
The Foundation for Modern Bioprogressive Orthodontics (FMBO) is formally established to preserve and advance Dr. Ricketts' educational and research legacy.
RMO-Data Services transitions under FMBO, combining decades of diagnostic expertise with modern technology to serve orthodontic professionals worldwide.
FMBO continues to advance orthodontic education through seminars, publications, and the FMBODS diagnostic service, carrying forward Dr. Ricketts' commitment to evidence-based practice.
Groundbreaking innovations that transformed orthodontic practice worldwide.
Development of comprehensive cephalometric analysis methods that remain standards in orthodontic diagnosis today.
Pioneering techniques for arch development and maintenance that address crowding and arch form correction.
Introduction of aesthetic assessment tools including the E-line and facial contour analysis methods.
Advanced growth forecasting methods that help clinicians plan treatment timing and expected outcomes.
Creation of VTO methodology for treatment planning visualization and patient communication.
Comprehensive educational programs and publications that have trained generations of orthodontists worldwide.
The Foundation for Modern Bioprogressive Orthodontics continues the mission Dr. Ricketts began decades ago. Through our diagnostic services, educational programs, and research initiatives, we ensure that his contributions continue to benefit orthodontic professionals and their patients around the world.
Our commitment remains unchanged: to promote evidence-based orthodontic practice, advance the field through rigorous research, and expand access to quality orthodontic care for all patients.
Discover more about our services, educational programs, and how you can support our mission.