Mewing: Is It Fact or Fiction?

Mewing is a term that has gained popularity on the internet in recent years. The concept is based on the idea that proper tongue posture can influence the appearance of the jaw and facial bones. But does it work, and is it safe? Let’s learn more in this article.

What Is Mewing?

Mewing is a technique that involves consciously changing the positioning of your tongue in your mouth. It's named after Dr. Mike Mew, a British orthodontist who popularized the method. 

The idea behind mewing is that by placing your tongue in a specific position against the roof of your mouth, you can gradually influence the development of your facial structure. This can potentially lead to a more defined jawline and improved alignment.

How Does Mewing Work?

Here are the core principles of mewing:

1. Tongue posture — The core of mewing is maintaining correct tongue posture. Instead of resting on the bottom of your mouth, you should press the entire tongue gently against the roof of your mouth (your palate). This includes the back third of your tongue, which is often neglected.
2. Closed mouth posture — While mewing, your mouth should be closed, with your teeth gently touching and your lips sealed. You shouldn’t clench your teeth, and your jaw should be relaxed.
3. Nasal breathing — Mewing advocates for breathing through your nose instead of the mouth. This facilitates proper tongue position and promotes optimal airflow.

Is Mewing Safe and Effective?

While mewing may seem tempting as a seemingly simple way to improve your facial structure and oral health, it's important to approach it with cautious optimism. Currently, there isn't enough strong scientific proof to back up the claims about mewing's dramatic results. The "before and after" pictures often seen online could be due to normal growth or other factors unrelated to mewing.

Incorrect tongue posture during mewing could cause jaw pain, headaches, or even changes to your bite. Some people have reported positive effects, while others have experienced negative side effects.

Proper Guidance and Expert Recommendations

As with any health-related practice, seeking guidance from qualified professionals before trying mewing is crucial. Talk to your dentist or orthodontist, who can assess your needs and anatomy and advise you on whether mewing is appropriate for you.

If you decide to try mewing, learn the correct technique. It involves more than just pressing your tongue against the roof of your mouth. If done incorrectly, mewing could lead to discomfort or even exacerbate oral health problems.

It's also important to be realistic about your expectations. Mewing might help improve your tongue posture and overall oral health, but it's not a miracle cure for all dental issues. A professional consultation is always recommended if you have concerns about your facial structure or bite.