What is mewing?

Mewing is a technique that involves specific tongue posture, primarily resting the entire tongue flat against the roof of the mouth, including the back third. It's often promoted as a DIY method for improving facial structure, particularly the jawline.

Core Principles:

• Tongue Posture: The fundamental aspect is maintaining constant contact between the entire tongue and the palate (roof of the mouth). This includes the tip, middle, and back portion of the tongue. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Tongue%20Posture
• Lip Seal: Keeping the lips gently sealed together without strain is considered crucial.
• Teeth Lightly Touching: The teeth should be lightly touching or slightly apart, avoiding clenching.
• Breathing: Nasal breathing is heavily emphasized over mouth breathing.

Claimed Benefits:

Proponents of mewing suggest it can lead to:

• Improved Jawline Definition: By supposedly reshaping the jawbone and facial muscles over time. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Jawline%20Definition
• Enhanced Facial Symmetry: Correcting perceived imbalances in facial features. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Facial%20Symmetry
• Better Breathing: Promoting nasal breathing and reducing mouth breathing. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Nasal%20Breathing
• Improved Sinus Health: By encouraging proper nasal function.

Scientific Evidence:

The scientific evidence supporting the claims of mewing is limited and largely anecdotal. There's a lack of rigorous, peer-reviewed research to substantiate its purported benefits. Some orthodontists acknowledge the importance of proper tongue posture for oral health and facial development, but they generally emphasize that mewing alone may not be sufficient for significant skeletal changes, especially in adults.

Cautions:

• Potential for Harm: Improper mewing technique could potentially lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, teeth misalignment, or other problems.
• Professional Guidance: Consulting with an orthodontist or other qualified professional is recommended before attempting mewing, especially if you have existing dental or jaw problems.

Origin:

The technique is named after Dr. John Mew, a British orthodontist who has advocated for orthotropics, a philosophy focused on guiding facial growth.