In recent years, a technique called “mewing” has gained popularity as a way to improve facial aesthetics and promote better oral posture. Advocates claim that by adopting specific tongue and mouth postures, individuals can achieve facial symmetry, proper jaw alignment, and even enhance overall health. In this blog post, we will explore what mewing is, examine the underlying principles, and evaluate whether it is an effective practice backed by scientific evidence.

Understanding Mewing:

Mewing refers to the practice of maintaining correct oral posture by resting the tongue against the roof of the mouth, with the lips closed and teeth lightly touching or slightly apart. The term “mewing” was coined by Dr. John Mew, an orthodontist, who proposed that proper tongue posture can help remodel the face and align the jawline. Mewing is essentially myofunctional therapy, but as Mew is a leading orthodontist in the field of orthotropics, he is skilled in using removable oral devices to stimulate the roof of the mouth and jaw to grow. Using growth-promoting appliances is often necessary in order for myofunctional therapy and normal and natural orofacial movements to be restored.

The Theory behind Mewing:

Myofunctional therapy aims to fix incorrect oral posture’ such as mouth breathing and tongue resting on the floor of the mouth, and improper swallowing techniques, as these behaviours contribute to various facial ailments and health issues. By adopting the correct tongue posture, individuals can reshape their facial structure, improve breathing, and potentially alleviate certain problems like malocclusion and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Since nasal breathing is the body’s number one method of detoxification, and best method of oxygenation, cellular health, brain function and the central nervous system all benefit immensely from restoring proper nasal breathing.

Potential Benefits:

Advocates of mewing suggest several potential benefits, which include:

1. Facial Symmetry:
Proper oral posture may help align the jaw and improve overall facial symmetry.

2. Jaw Definition:
Mewing is believed to contribute to a more defined jawline, enhancing facial aesthetics.

3. Breathing Improvement:
Correct tongue posture may promote nasal breathing and help alleviate issues related to mouth breathing.

4. Sleep quality enhancement:
Sleep disordered breathing, including conditions like snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. Among the various treatment options available, myofunctional therapy has gained attention for its potential to address the underlying causes of sleep disordered breathing. In this blog post, we will delve into the evidence surrounding myofunctional therapy and its effectiveness in treating sleep disordered breathing.

Understanding Myofunctional Therapy:

Myofunctional therapy is a non-invasive, exercise-based approach that aims to improve the function and strength of the orofacial muscles, including those involved in breathing, swallowing, and chewing. It involves a series of targeted exercises designed to correct oral habits, improve tongue posture, and promote proper breathing through the nose.

The Link Between Myofunctional Therapy and Sleep Disordered Breathing:

The idea behind myofunctional therapy’s effectiveness in treating sleep disordered breathing lies in addressing the potential contributing factors, such as improper tongue posture, weak orofacial muscles, and mouth breathing. Advocates of myofunctional therapy claim that by correcting these issues, it is possible to alleviate symptoms associated with sleep disordered breathing and potentially provide a long-term solution.

Evidence Supporting Myofunctional Therapy:

While research on myofunctional therapy and its specific impact on sleep disordered breathing is still emerging, several studies have shown promising results. Here are some notable findings:

1. Reduced Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI):
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that patients who underwent myofunctional therapy demonstrated a significant reduction in the AHI, a measure of the severity of sleep apnea. The therapy helped improve breathing patterns, decreased mouth breathing, and strengthened orofacial muscles.

2. Improved Nasal Breathing:
Nasal airflow is crucial for optimal sleep and respiratory function. Research published in the International Journal of Orofacial Myology showed that myofunctional therapy resulted in increased nasal airflow and improved nasal breathing during sleep.

3. Positive Effects on Orofacial Muscles:
A study published in Sleep Science investigated the impact of myofunctional therapy on the strength and endurance of orofacial muscles. The results indicated that the therapy led to improvements in muscle function, contributing to better control of the airway and reduced sleep disordered breathing symptoms.

Limitations and Considerations:

While research on myofunctional therapy and its specific impact on sleep disordered breathing is still emerging, several studies have shown promising results. Here are some notable findings:

1. Individual Variability:
Treatment outcomes may vary depending on the individual’s specific condition, severity of sleep disordered breathing, and overall health.

2. Multidisciplinary Approach:
Myofunctional therapy should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include other interventions such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices, oral appliances, or surgery, depending on the individual case.

3. Long-Term Commitment:
Myofunctional therapy requires consistent practice and ongoing commitment to see lasting results. It may not provide immediate relief but rather gradual improvement over time.

Consulting a Healthcare Professional:

Before considering myofunctional therapy for sleep disordered breathing, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional specializing in sleep medicine or an orofacial myofunctional therapist. They can evaluate your specific situation, conduct a comprehensive assessment, and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach tailored to your needs.

Conclusion:

Myofunctional therapy shows promise as a non-invasive approach to address the underlying causes of sleep disordered breathing. While the evidence supporting its effectiveness is still evolving, studies suggest that myofunctional therapy can positively impact symptoms associated with sleep disordered breathing by improving tongue posture, strengthening orofacial muscles, and promoting nasal breathing. It is crucial to seek guidance from qualified healthcare professionals to determine the most suitable treatment approach for your individual needs. Remember, an integrated and personalized approach is key to effectively managing sleep disordered breathing and improving overall sleep quality.