The foundation of modern orthodontic practice — from Dr. Robert Ricketts' pioneering work to the establishment of FMBO and modern FMBODS technology.
"The Bioprogressive approach is not just about teeth — it's about understanding growth, function, and aesthetics as an integrated whole."— Dr. Robert M. Ricketts
One of the most influential orthodontists of the 20th century, whose pioneering work in cephalometrics, arch development, and facial aesthetics revolutionized orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning.
Dr. Robert M. Ricketts began his specialty training in orthodontics at the University of Illinois Chicago in 1950 under the direction of Drs. Allan Brodie and William Downs — two pioneers who pioneered cephalometric radiography.
During his formative years, Ricketts worked with influential mentors including Dr. Pruzansky, Dr. Cecil Steiner, and Dr. Silas Kloen. Dr. Steiner encouraged Ricketts to establish his practice in Pacific Palisades, California.
First Patient: July 1, 1952
During his student years, Ricketts produced pioneering papers on TMJ utilizing Laminagraphy and developed a technique for forecasting facial growth over a 2-year period from lateral radiographs, under Dr. Downs' guidance.
Building upon foundational work of his mentors, Dr. Ricketts developed what would become known as Bioprogressive Therapy — a comprehensive philosophy that emphasized evidence-based diagnosis and patient-centered treatment.
The development of Bioprogressive Therapy was a collaborative effort of brilliant minds in orthodontics.
Joined as preceptee in 1959, became essential collaborator
Helped spread Ricketts' ideas globally
Co-author of Bioprogressive Therapy textbook
Co-author and key researcher
Industry partner for appliance development
The evolution of Bioprogressive Orthodontics through decades of innovation and collaboration.
Dr. R.M. Ricketts begins specialty training in orthodontics at the University of Illinois Chicago under the direction of Drs. Allan Brodie and William Downs.
Dr. Ricketts receives his first patient in Pacific Palisades, California, establishing his private practice.
Dr. Ricketts publishes his initial research on cephalometric analysis, introducing concepts that would become fundamental to modern orthodontic diagnosis.
Dr. Ruel Bench joins as a preceptee and becomes an essential collaborator in the development of Bioprogressive techniques.
RMO-Data Services is established to provide diagnostic support to orthodontic professionals, offering comprehensive cephalometric analysis and treatment planning services.
Partnership with Rocky Mountain Orthodontics leads to developing preformed bands and pre-adjusted brackets. Presented at the AAO meeting in Los Angeles.
Ricketts initiates advanced classes for groups of 15-25 participants, sharing Bioprogressive techniques with practicing orthodontists.
FOR established in San Francisco to advance research and education in Bioprogressive Therapy. The same year, the "polar growth phenomenon" is identified — a radial point from which facial growth emanates.
Introduction of the Visual Treatment Objective methodology, allowing clinicians to visualize treatment outcomes and communicate expected results to patients.
The arcial growth of the mandible is described, revolutionizing understanding of mandibular development.
Research on arcial growth of the mandible first published in peer-reviewed literature.
Ricketts publishes six articles in one year and receives the prestigious Ketchum Award, recognizing his contributions to orthodontics.
The landmark textbook "Bioprogressive Therapy" is published, co-authored by Ricketts, Bench, Gugino, Hilgers, and Schulhof. This comprehensive work details mechanics and techniques, eventually translated into multiple languages.
With Dr. Carl Gugino's assistance, Ricketts' ideas spread globally. Ricketts studies Divine Proportion and Fibonacci numbers with Dr. Melvin Moss, subsequently lecturing on these principles to orthodontists and plastic surgeons.
Dr. Ricketts publishes Book One (Parts I and II) with RMO, continuing the documentation of Bioprogressive techniques.
Dr. Ricketts launches 13 manuals on Bioprogressive Therapy subjects through the Bioprogressive Institute for Bioprogressive Education in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Dr. Robert M. Ricketts passes away, leaving behind a revolutionary legacy in orthodontics. He continued publishing and lecturing until his final days.
A FOR meeting occurs in Orlando, Florida, where followers debate renaming Bioprogressive Therapy — the proposal is rejected by majority vote. This becomes the final FOR meeting before the group dissolves.
The Foundation for Modern Bioprogressive Orthodontics (FMBO) is formally established to preserve and advance Dr. Ricketts' educational and research legacy, combining decades of diagnostic expertise with modern technology.
Launch of DR. ANNIE — AI-assisted diagnostic platform integrated with FMBODS services, bringing Bioprogressive analysis into the modern digital era.
FMBO continues to advance orthodontic education through seminars, publications, and the FMBODS diagnostic service, carrying forward Dr. Ricketts' commitment to evidence-based practice.
Dr. Ricketts' interest in geometry and mathematics led him to study Divine Proportion and Fibonacci numbers with Dr. Melvin Moss in 1979. He subsequently lectured on these principles — the mathematical basis of natural beauty — to orthodontists and plastic surgeons throughout the 1980s.
Key Concept: The "polar growth phenomenon" identified in 1968 describes a radial point from which facial growth emanates, similar to how sun rays radiate from the sun.
The foundational principles that guide Bioprogressive orthodontic treatment, as established by Dr. Robert M. Ricketts.
Application of the visual treatment objective in planning treatment, evaluating anchorage, and monitoring results.
Torque control throughout treatment for optimal tooth positioning and facial harmony.
Muscular and cortical bone anchorage for stable treatment outcomes.
Movement of all teeth in any direction with proper application of pressure.
Orthopedic alteration of the underlying skeletal structure when indicated.
Treat the overbite before the overjet correction for stable results.
Sectional arch therapy for targeted tooth movement and efficiency.
Concept of overtreatment to account for relapse tendency and ensure long-term stability.
Unlocking the malocclusion in a progressive sequence to establish normal function.
Efficiency in treatment with quality results, utilizing prefabrication of appliances.
"Bioprogressive Therapy" (1979)
This comprehensive textbook detailed the mechanics and techniques of Bioprogressive Therapy and was eventually translated into multiple languages, spreading the philosophy worldwide.
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 emerged to preserve these principles while integrating new products, materials, and technologies. Their mission centers on creating "a portal of continuous progression" where practitioners can debate, publish papers, and conduct scientific work.
Through our diagnostic services, educational programs, and research initiatives, we ensure that Dr. Ricketts' 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.
The FMBODS (Foundation for Modern Bioprogressive Orthodontics Data Services) platform represents the evolution of the original RMO-Data Services from the 1960s into a modern, cloud-based diagnostic platform.
Today, FMBODS provides:
Discover more about our services, educational programs, and how you can support our mission.