The internet is abuzz with fitness trends, and “mewing” is one that has recently sparked curiosity and debate. But what exactly is mewing, and does it hold any truth to its supposed benefits? 

This article delves into the world of mewing, exploring its origins, the science behind it, and the potential risks and benefits.

The Origins of Mewing: A Tale of Two Dentists

The concept of mewing stems from the work of John Mew, a British orthodontist who, along with his son, Mike Mew,  developed a practice called  “orthotropics.”  

Orthotropics  focuses  on  facial  development  influenced  by  tongue  posture  and  oral  habits.  John Mew  believed  that  proper  tongue  posture  throughout  childhood  could  promote  optimal  jaw  development  and  facial aesthetics.

The Core of Mewing: Tongue Posture and Its Potential Effects

Mewing refers to a specific tongue posture where the entire tongue rests flat against the roof of the mouth, with the tip behind the upper front teeth. Proponents of mewing claim this posture can lead to several benefits, including:

Improved jaw development: They believe proper tongue posture can create gentle pressure on the palate, influencing the jaw bones to widen and develop more forwardly. This could potentially lead to a more defined jawline and straighter teeth.

Enhanced facial aesthetics: Mewing is claimed to improve facial symmetry and potentially reduce the appearance of a weak chin or gummy smile.

Improved breathing: Proper tongue posture is thought to promote better nasal breathing, leading to increased oxygen intake and improved sleep quality.

Limited Evidence, Big Claims: A Critical Look at Mewing

While the idea of influencing facial structure through tongue posture is intriguing, there is limited scientific evidence to support the claims surrounding mewing. Below is a summary of the state of the field as of right now:

Anecdotal Evidence: Many online testimonials tout the benefits of mewing. However, anecdotal evidence is not scientifically reliable and could be influenced by the placebo effect or confirmation bias.

Limited Research: There is a lack of large-scale, controlled studies investigating the effectiveness of mewing for jaw development or facial aesthetics.

Focus on Growing Jaws: Mewing is often promoted for adults. However, most jaw development occurs during childhood. While minor changes might be possible in adults, significant structural alterations are unlikely.

Potential Risks to Consider:  The Dark Side of Mewing

While seemingly harmless, improper mewing techniques could lead to unintended consequences:

TMJ Issues: Straining the jaw muscles by forcing an unnatural tongue posture could contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, causing pain and jaw joint problems.

Speech Difficulties: Tongue placement is crucial for speech. Altering tongue position could lead to speech impediments or lisping.

Unrealistic Expectations: Focusing solely on mewing for aesthetic improvements can lead to disappointment and body image issues.

The Verdict: Mewing – A Fad or a Viable Option?

Based on current evidence, mewing lacks strong scientific backing for its purported benefits. Orthodontic treatment remains the gold standard for correcting jaw misalignment and achieving a desired facial structure.

However, maintaining proper tongue posture could offer some advantages:

Improved Oral Habits: Focusing on tongue placement can promote mindful swallowing and potentially reduce tongue thrusting, a habit that can negatively impact teeth.

Better Breathing Awareness: Mewing can bring awareness to proper nasal breathing, which can be beneficial for overall health.

The Final Word:  Focusing on Overall Well-being

While mewing might not be a revolutionary technique for facial transformation, it highlights the importance of oral habits and  myofunctional  therapy  (exercises  that  improve  oral  muscle  function).  If  you’re  concerned  about  jaw  development, misalignment, or breathing difficulties, consulting a qualified orthodontist or dentist is recommended. 

Remember, overall well-being goes beyond aesthetics. Focus on a balanced diet, good sleep hygiene, and healthy lifestyle practices for a healthy and happy you.

FAQs

Mewing, the practice of altering tongue posture to supposedly reshape your jawline, has exploded on YouTube and social media. But before embarking on your tongue-centric transformation,  let’s explore the facts and answer those burning questions you might have gleaned from YouTube searches.

What is Mewing?

Mewing involves resting your tongue on the roof of your mouth, supposedly mimicking the posture of felines (hence the name). Proponents claim it can improve jawline definition, facial structure, breathing, and even sleep apnea.

Is there any scientific evidence to support mewing?

There’s currently no credible scientific research directly proving mewing’s effectiveness for facial reshaping or other health benefits. Studies on facial development primarily focus on genetics and environmental factors like diet and chewing habits.

Why is mewing so popular on Youtube?

Anecdotal evidence and before-and-after photos shared online have fueled mewing’s popularity. However, it’s important to consider factors like weight loss, lighting, and photo manipulation that can influence appearance.

What are the potential risks of mewing?

While generally considered safe, improper mewing techniques could lead to:

TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) issues: Straining your jaw muscles by forcing an unnatural tongue position could cause TMJ pain and dysfunction.

Misaligned teeth: Constant pressure on your teeth from an unnatural tongue position could theoretically lead to misalignment. However, more research is needed to confirm this risk.

What do dentists recommend?

Dentists generally advise against it for facial reshaping due to the lack of scientific backing and potential risks. They recommend consulting a professional orthodontist for any concerns about your jawline or teeth.

What if I’m interested in improving my jawline?

If you’re unhappy with your jawline, there are safer and more established options:

Orthodontics: Braces or aligners can effectively realign your jaw and teeth for a more defined look.

Facial exercises: While evidence is limited, some facial exercises might help strengthen and tone jaw muscles, potentially leading to a more sculpted appearance. However, consult a professional to ensure proper technique.

Cosmetic surgery: This is a more permanent option, but comes with risks and requires consultation with a qualified surgeon.

What about Youtube videos claiming mewing success stories?

Remember, anecdotal evidence doesn’t equal scientific proof. Be wary of sensational claims and before-and-after photos that might be misleading.

So, should I try mewing?

The decision is yours. However, it’s important to approach it with a critical eye and prioritize safe and scientifically-backed methods for improving your jawline or facial structure.

Remember: Consulting a qualified healthcare professional is always recommended before undertaking any practices that could impact your health.

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