In this episode, I welcome Dr. Becca Bockow, a renowned orthodontist, periodontist, and educator, for a deep dive into the evolving world of interceptive (Phase I) orthodontic treatment. Dr. Bockow shares her unique journey from restorative dentistry to dual specialty training and how her interdisciplinary background shapes her approach to pediatric airway health and early intervention.
Key Topics Covered:
- The science and evidence behind early orthodontic expansion and its impact on long-term health
- The relationship between airway, sleep-disordered breathing, and craniofacial development
- Why traditional orthodontic training often overlooks early intervention—and how to bridge the gap
- The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration with ENTs, pediatricians, sleep specialists, and therapists
- Practical screening tools and questionnaires for identifying pediatric sleep issues
- The role of 3D imaging (CBCT) in modern orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning
- Addressing common misconceptions and stigma around Phase I treatment
- How early intervention can help prevent surgery and improve quality of life for children
Actionable Takeaways:
- Early orthodontic evaluation is about more than just teeth—it's about whole-body health.
- Orthodontists can play a pivotal role in identifying and addressing pediatric airway issues.
- Collaboration and ongoing education are key to advancing patient care and professional growth.
Resources & Links:
- Airway Palooza 2025: An upcoming conference focused on airway health, with a special $500 discount code for listeners (DOCPALOOZA) - https://airwayhealthsolutions.com/palooza
- Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Pediatric-Sleep-Questionnaire_fig1_347054293
- Ferris 6 Sleep Study: https://www.fairest.org/tools/
- Rethinking Rhinoplasty – Howard Stupak: https://www.amazon.com/Rethinking-Rhinoplasty-Facial-Surgery-Re-Analysis/dp/3030446751
- DeLuke Orthodontic Coaching Website: www.theorthocoach.com
Tune in for an inspiring and practical conversation that challenges the status quo and empowers clinicians to make a lasting impact on their patients’ lives.
What is The DOC Podcast?
The DOC Podcast brings you unique educational content taught by Dr. Mike DeLuke, a Board Certified Orthodontist with over 20 years of clinical and academic experience. Dr. DeLuke built his orthodontic practice from scratch in the early 2000s and grew it into a multimillion-dollar enterprise in less than 10 years. He was able to retire from private practice at the age of 46 years old, and now devotes his energy to teaching his colleagues how to succeed both personally and professionally.
Dr. DeLuke has served as a faculty member at numerous hospitals and orthodontic residency programs around the country, including as the cleft craniofacial orthodontist at Albany Medical Center in New York, and as a clinical professor at The University of Connecticut in the Department of Orthodontics. He is presently an adjunct professor at Nova Southeastern University in the Department of Orthodontics.
The DOC Podcast will bring you in-depth discussions and interviews with industry leaders and experts on a variety of topics including clinical excellence, practice management, finance and wealth creation, health and wellness, taxes and accounting, fitness, and much more!