What is Mewing? Debunking the Tongue Posture Trend

In the ever-evolving landscape of health and wellness trends, "mewing" has emerged as a curious phenomenon. plastered across social media feeds, the term conjures images of dramatic jawline transformations and promises of improved facial structure. But what is mewing, exactly? This blog delves deep into the world of mewing, exploring its origins, techniques, purported benefits, and the scientific evidence surrounding it.

Demystifying Mewing: A Historical and Scientific Exploration

What is Mewing? At its core, mewing is a practice focused on tongue posture. Proponents claim that by resting your tongue in a specific position against the roof of your mouth, you can achieve a range of benefits, including:

• Reshaped Jawline: The central claim surrounding mewing is its ability to sculpt and define the jawline, resulting in a more chiseled appearance.
• Improved Breathing: Proper tongue posture is believed to promote nasal breathing, leading to better oxygen intake and overall health benefits.
• Reduced Sleep Apnea: Some proponents suggest mewing can improve airway patency, potentially mitigating sleep apnea symptoms.
• Enhanced Facial Development: Mewing is claimed to influence facial growth patterns, particularly in children, promoting a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing structure.

The Origins of Mewing: The concept of mewing stems from the work of John Mew, a British orthodontist who, along with his son Mike Mew, developed a philosophy called "orthotropics." Orthotropics emphasizes the influence of facial posture, particularly tongue position, on facial development. John Mew's license was revoked by the General Dental Council in the UK due to concerns about his claims, but his ideas continue to be promoted by some, particularly online.

What is Mewing Based On? The core principle behind mewing revolves around the idea that the tongue exerts a molding force on the jawbone. Proponents suggest that proper tongue posture, with the tongue resting on the roof of the mouth, can stimulate bone growth in the jaw, leading to a wider and more defined jawline. However, this concept lacks strong scientific backing.

The Practicalities of Mewing: How to Do It (and What to Expect)

What is Mewing Like in Practice? The mechanics of mewing are relatively straightforward:

1. Maintain a Closed Mouth: Begin by gently closing your lips, ensuring they are sealed shut.
2. Relaxation is Key: Relax your jaw and tongue completely. Avoid tensing any muscles in your face.
3. Tongue to the Roof: The crucial step – press your entire tongue flat against the roof of your mouth. This includes the back of your tongue, not just the tip.

Maintaining the Mew: Proponents recommend holding this posture for extended periods throughout the day, aiming to make it your natural tongue resting position. However, achieving and maintaining this position can be challenging, especially for those unaccustomed to it.

What to Expect When Mewing: Initially, mewing might feel awkward and unnatural. It may take time and practice to comfortably maintain the proper tongue posture. Some individuals might experience mild soreness in their jaw muscles as they adjust to the new position. It's important to listen to your body and avoid any discomfort that persists.

The Big Question: Does Mewing Work? Separating Fact from Fiction

The Lack of Scientific Evidence: While anecdotal evidence and before-and-after photos abound online, there's a critical caveat: the lack of robust scientific research to support the claims surrounding mewing. Studies investigating the effectiveness of mewing in altering jawline structure or addressing health concerns are scarce.

What Orthodontists Say: Many orthodontists advise caution regarding mewing. While proper tongue posture can be beneficial for oral health and development, they generally don't endorse mewing as a method for facial sculpting. Growth of the jawbone is a complex process influenced by genetics, hormones, and other factors.

Potential Risks of Mewing: While generally considered safe, there are potential downsides to consider. Improper mewing techniques, particularly with excessive force, could potentially lead to jaw misalignment or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Additionally, focusing solely on mewing for addressing sleep apnea or breathing difficulties can delay seeking proper medical intervention.

Beyond the Hype: A Look at the Potential Benefits

Proper Tongue Posture and Oral Health: Despite the lack of scientific evidence for dramatic jawline changes, there might be some truth to the core concept of mewing. Proper tongue posture can promote healthy oral development and function. Studies have shown that correct tongue position can improve breathing patterns, potentially leading to better sleep and overall health. Additionally, proper tongue posture might contribute to improved dental alignment and reduced risk of overcrowding.

The Takeaway on What is Mewing

What is mewing? It's a trendy technique with limited scientific backing. While it might not be a magic bullet for facial sculpting, proper tongue posture could contribute to overall oral health. If you're curious about mewing, discuss it with your dentist or orthodontist for personalized advice. Remember, consulting a professional is always best before embarking on any self-treatment plans.