Understanding Mewing: What is it, Really?
Mewing is a practice derived from orthotropics, a field of dentistry focused on facial growth, and popularized by British orthodontist John Mew. The technique involves maintaining proper tongue posture by resting the entire tongue on the roof of the mouth, or palate, with lips sealed and teeth lightly touching. Adherents claim this practice can improve facial structure, define the jawline, and even correct dental issues. While the concept of proper tongue posture is a component of evidence-based myofunctional therapy, the specific claims made by mewing enthusiasts about its aesthetic effects on adults lack scientific validation.
Why Mewing's Effectiveness Decreases with Age
The most significant factor determining mewing's limited impact on older adults is the cessation of bone growth after puberty. The craniofacial skeleton, which defines our facial structure, is no longer in a state of flux. While anecdotal evidence and social media trends suggest otherwise, these claims are not supported by peer-reviewed research. Any perceived changes in facial appearance from mewing in older individuals are likely due to improvements in muscle tone rather than actual bone remodeling. The facial bones are fused and stable, and the natural process of aging, including skin laxity and fat redistribution, cannot be reversed by tongue position alone.
The Role of Bone Maturity
- Pediatric vs. Adult Skeletons: Orthotropics, the foundation of mewing, was originally intended for growing children whose bones are malleable. Consistent tongue pressure can influence the developing facial bones of a young person. In contrast, an older person’s facial bones are mature and will not reshape under this type of force.
- Limited Impact: The amount of force the tongue can generate is simply insufficient to produce significant structural changes in a fully developed adult jaw. Scientific consensus holds that for adults, reshaping requires surgical intervention or professional orthodontic treatment.
Potential Benefits for Older Adults (Beyond Aesthetics)
While the cosmetic reshaping claims are unfounded for seniors, consistent proper tongue posture offers several non-cosmetic health benefits. These advantages relate to improving muscle function and correcting poor oral habits, which can be particularly beneficial as we age.
Breathing and Airway Health
- Improved Nasal Breathing: Proper tongue posture encourages nasal breathing by keeping the mouth closed and the airway clear. This can be beneficial for those who have developed a habit of mouth breathing, which can contribute to dry mouth and snoring.
- Reduced Snoring: Myofunctional therapy, which includes targeted tongue exercises, has been shown to reduce snoring and symptoms of mild sleep apnea. Since mewing involves similar tongue positioning, it might offer some of these benefits, although more research is needed.
Oral Health and Muscle Tone
- Support for Oral Health: Consistent tongue placement against the palate is part of a healthy oral posture. It can help with proper swallowing and jaw function, potentially reducing tension in the jaw muscles.
- Reduced Jaw Strain: Some users report a reduction in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. While not a cure, maintaining proper posture can help with muscle balance and reduce overall jaw strain.
Comparing Mewing's Claims: Younger vs. Older Adults
| Feature | Mewing for Younger Adults (with growing bones) | Mewing for Older Adults (mature bones) |
|---|---|---|
| Facial Reshaping | Possible influence on bone growth and development, although scientific evidence is limited. | Negligible effect on facial bone structure; bones are fully developed. |
| Jawline Definition | Anecdotal claims of improvement due to potential bone and muscle changes. | Dependent on muscle tone improvement rather than bone changes; effects are minimal and temporary. |
| Oral Function | Can help correct tongue thrusting and poor posture during childhood. | Can improve oral posture, swallowing, and breathing; no bone-related changes. |
| Dental Issues | Can support proper oral development and potentially aid with some minor malocclusions. | Cannot correct established dental misalignment or bite issues; professional treatment is necessary. |
| Potential Risks | Possible misalignment if pressure is uneven; needs professional guidance. | Risks include potential for TMJ issues or worsened dental alignment if done incorrectly. |
Risks of Mewing in Older Age
For older individuals, improper mewing can be a cause for concern. Attempting to force facial changes with excessive pressure can lead to unintended consequences, including temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), dental misalignment, and muscle strain. Furthermore, relying on unproven methods can delay seeking professional, evidence-based treatment for genuine oral health issues. Always consult with a qualified dental or medical professional before beginning any new oral exercise routine.
The Verdict on Mewing for Seniors
While the internet is rife with success stories, the scientific community is clear: significant, permanent cosmetic changes from mewing in older adults are a myth. The bone structure is fixed, and the forces of the tongue are no match for biological maturity. However, the underlying principle of proper oral posture is beneficial. It can lead to improved breathing, reduced snoring, and better muscle tone. For those seeking meaningful aesthetic changes or corrections for bite problems, the best course of action is to consult with an orthodontist or maxillofacial surgeon, who can offer proven, evidence-based solutions.
It is important for older individuals to manage expectations and understand the limitations of these exercises. Focusing on the practical health benefits, such as enhanced breathing and muscle function, is a more realistic approach than pursuing unachievable cosmetic goals. For further reading on evidence-based approaches to oral health, a helpful resource is the American Association of Orthodontists at aaoinfo.org.
