Do You Mew?

Mewing: What It Is and Does It Really Work?

What is Mewing?

Mewing is a technique that involves positioning your tongue against the roof of your mouth, which some believe can reshape your face and improve jawline definition over time. Named after Dr. John Mew, a British orthodontist who popularized the method, mewing has gained significant attention on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where people showcase their before-and-after transformations.

How Does Mewing Work?

The basic principle of mewing is simple: you place your tongue flat against the roof of your mouth, with the tip of your tongue just behind your front teeth. You should keep your mouth closed, teeth gently touching, and breathe through your nose. The idea is that by maintaining this tongue posture consistently, you can:

1. Improve Facial Structure: Supporters claim that proper tongue posture can exert gentle pressure on the upper jaw (maxilla), which may influence the alignment of teeth and the overall shape of your face over time.
2. Enhance Jawline Definition: Mewing is believed to help develop a more defined jawline, as the tongue’s pressure on the palate could lead to changes in the lower facial muscles.
3. Correct Oral Posture: Mewing encourages proper oral posture, which can have benefits beyond aesthetics, such as reducing mouth breathing and potentially improving issues like sleep apnea or snoring.

Does Mewing Really Work?

The effectiveness of mewing is a topic of debate. Here’s a look at the arguments for and against:

Potential Benefits:

1. Improved Oral Posture: Many orthodontists agree that maintaining proper tongue posture can be beneficial for overall oral health. It encourages nasal breathing, which is healthier than mouth breathing and can reduce the risk of dry mouth, bad breath, and some dental issues.
2. Minor Facial Changes: Some anecdotal evidence suggests that mewing, particularly when started at a young age, might lead to minor improvements in facial structure over a long period. These changes are usually subtle and may be more pronounced in growing children and teenagers, whose bones are still developing.
3. Jawline Definition: By focusing on posture and facial exercises, some people report a slight improvement in jawline appearance. However, these results are often temporary and can vary significantly from person to person.

Skepticism and Limitations:

1. Lack of Scientific Evidence: While mewing has gained popularity online, there is limited scientific research to back up the claims of significant facial reshaping in adults. Most orthodontists and medical professionals caution that the changes are likely minimal and not as dramatic as some before-and-after photos suggest.
2. Long-term Commitment: Mewing requires consistent and long-term commitment to see any potential results. It’s not a quick fix, and the changes, if any, may take years to become noticeable.
3. Not a Substitute for Orthodontic Treatment: Mewing is not a replacement for professional orthodontic care. If you have dental or jaw alignment issues, it’s essential to consult with an orthodontist who can provide appropriate treatment.

Mewing may offer some benefits, particularly in promoting better oral posture and potentially enhancing jawline definition to a minor extent. However, the results are likely subtle, and significant changes in facial structure are unlikely, especially in adults. While mewing can be part of a broader approach to facial health and aesthetics, it’s important to have realistic expectations and consider professional advice for any significant dental or orthodontic concerns.