Mewing: A Controversial Practice for Facial Rejuvenation

What is Mewing?

Mewing is a facial exercise technique that involves proper tongue posture to influence facial structure and jawline development. It involves resting the tongue on the roof of the mouth, specifically against the alveolar ridge, while keeping the lips closed and teeth slightly apart. Proponents of mewing claim that this practice can improve facial aesthetics, including a more defined jawline, fuller cheeks, and a more prominent chin.

Mewing, in its simplest terms, is about becoming more aware of your tongue’s position in your mouth and consciously training it to rest in a specific way. Think of it like posture for your tongue.  

Instead of letting your tongue rest passively on the bottom of your mouth or against your teeth, mewing encourages you to:

• Flatten your tongue against the roof of your mouth: The entire surface of your tongue should press gently against your palate.  
• Position the tip of your tongue: The tip of your tongue should be placed just behind your front teeth, without touching them.  
• Maintain a closed mouth: Your lips should be sealed, and your teeth should be gently touching (but not clenched).  

This might feel a bit awkward or unnatural at first, especially if you’re not used to paying attention to your tongue’s position. However, with consistent practice, mewing is intended to become a more natural resting position for your tongue.

The idea behind mewing is that this specific tongue posture can influence the alignment of your jaw and facial bones over time, potentially leading to a more defined jawline, improved facial structure, and better breathing. It’s based on the concept that gentle, consistent pressure can gradually reshape bones, especially during development.

While the effectiveness of mewing is still debated, proponents believe that it can offer various benefits, including:

• Enhanced facial aesthetics: A more defined jawline, improved facial symmetry, and a more prominent chin.
• Improved breathing: Encourages nasal breathing, which can have positive effects on overall health.  
• Better oral posture: Can help correct tongue thrust and other oral posture issues.
• Reduced snoring and sleep apnea: May help to open up the airways and improve breathing during sleep.  

However, it’s crucial to note that:

• Scientific evidence is limited: There is no conclusive scientific evidence to support all the claims made about mewing.
• Results vary: The potential benefits of mewing can vary significantly depending on individual factors such as age, genetics, and the severity of any existing jaw or facial issues.  
• Consistency is key: Mewing requires consistent practice over a long period to see any potential results.  

Potential Benefits of Mewing

• Improved facial aesthetics: Proponents of mewing claim that it can improve facial aesthetics by promoting proper facial development and reducing the risk of malocclusion (misaligned teeth).
• Improved breathing: Proper tongue posture can help to improve nasal breathing and reduce mouth breathing, which can have positive effects on overall health.
• Improved posture: Maintaining proper tongue posture can contribute to better posture and alignment of the head and neck.

Potential Risks and Concerns

• Limited scientific evidence: The scientific evidence supporting the benefits of mewing is limited and inconclusive.
• Unrealistic expectations: It is important to have realistic expectations regarding the potential results of mewing. Significant changes in facial structure may take time and consistent effort.
• Potential for harm: Improper mewing technique or excessive force can potentially lead to jaw pain, discomfort, or other issues.

Key Concepts

Mewing is based on the concept of orthotropics, a branch of dentistry focused on guiding facial growth and development. Orthotropics emphasizes the importance of proper tongue posture, nasal breathing, and swallowing patterns in shaping the jaw and facial structure.  

Proposed Mechanisms

• Bone Remodeling: Proponents of mewing suggest that consistent pressure from the tongue against the palate can stimulate bone remodeling, leading to changes in the shape of the maxilla (upper jaw) and mandible (lower jaw).
• Muscle Activation: Mewing may also activate specific muscles involved in chewing and swallowing, potentially influencing jaw alignment and facial structure.
• Airway Development: Proper tongue posture can help to open up the airways, improving nasal breathing and potentially reducing the risk of sleep apnea and other breathing problems.  

Scientific Evidence

The science behind mewing is a complex and debated topic. While some proponents claim significant benefits, the scientific evidence is limited and inconclusive. However, understanding the underlying principles can help you make informed decisions about this practice.  

While some anecdotal evidence and limited studies suggest potential benefits of mewing, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. Some studies have shown that:

• Tongue posture can influence jaw development: Research has demonstrated that tongue posture and swallowing patterns can affect the growth and development of the jaw, particularly in children and adolescents.  
• Orthotropic treatment can improve facial structure: Studies on orthotropic treatment, which includes mewing as one component, have shown positive results in improving facial aesthetics and correcting malocclusion (misaligned teeth).  
• Nasal breathing has health benefits: Nasal breathing has been linked to various health benefits, including improved sleep quality, reduced risk of respiratory infections, and better oxygenation of the body.  

How to Mew Properly

If you’re interested in trying mewing, it’s essential to learn the proper technique to avoid potential risks. Here are some basic guidelines:

1. Relax your jaw: Gently open your mouth slightly.
2. Place your tongue: Gently place the tip of your tongue against the alveolar ridge, the bony ridge behind your upper teeth.
3. Close your lips: Close your lips gently, creating a slight seal.
4. Maintain proper posture: Keep your head upright and your shoulders relaxed.
5. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to achieving any potential benefits from mewing.

Conclusion

Mewing is a controversial practice with limited scientific evidence to support its claims. While it may offer some potential benefits, it’s important to approach mewing with realistic expectations and to prioritize proper technique to avoid any potential risks. If you’re considering trying mewing, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or an orthodontist to discuss your individual circumstances and any potential concerns.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a ¹ qualified healthcare professional ² before attempting any new exercise or health regimen.