What clinical data exists on the effects and safety of mewing?

Clinical Evidence on Mewing: Limited Data and Safety Considerations

There is no clinical evidence from high-quality studies supporting the effectiveness or safety of mewing as a technique for facial restructuring or health improvement.

What is Mewing?

Mewing is a technique that involves proper tongue posture, where the entire tongue is positioned against the roof of the mouth (palate) while keeping the lips closed and teeth lightly touching. It was popularized by British orthodontist Dr. John Mew and his son Dr. Mike Mew, who claim it can improve facial structure, jawline definition, and potentially address various oral issues.

Current Clinical Evidence

After reviewing available medical literature and guidelines, I found:

1. No Clinical Trials: There are no randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, or case-control studies specifically evaluating mewing.

2. No Mention in Orthodontic Guidelines: Major orthodontic and dental associations have not included mewing in their clinical practice guidelines.

3. Related Techniques: Some medically recognized techniques that involve tongue positioning exist, but these differ from mewing:

   • The Masako maneuver: A therapeutic technique used in dysphagia rehabilitation that involves swallowing while protruding the tongue beyond the lips 1. Unlike mewing, this is a specific exercise rather than a continuous posture.

   • Various swallowing therapy techniques that focus on tongue position during swallowing, but not as a continuous posture 1.

Potential Concerns

Without clinical evidence, several concerns exist about mewing:

1. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Issues: Prolonged pressure on the palate and jaw positioning could potentially exacerbate or cause TMJ disorders in susceptible individuals.

2. Dental Alignment: Self-directed attempts to alter facial structure could interfere with professional orthodontic treatment or natural dental alignment.

3. Unrealistic Expectations: Claims about dramatic facial restructuring lack scientific validation.

4. Individual Variation: Facial structure is largely determined by genetics, and the potential for modification through tongue posture likely varies significantly between individuals.

Comparison to Evidence-Based Practices

In contrast to mewing, other oral and facial interventions have substantial clinical evidence:

1. Orthodontic Treatment: Well-established clinical guidelines exist for various orthodontic interventions 1.

2. Speech and Swallowing Therapy: Evidence-based techniques for improving oral function are documented in clinical guidelines 1.

3. Surgical Interventions: When indicated for functional or structural issues, surgical approaches have documented outcomes and safety profiles 1.

Recommendations

If you're interested in facial structure or oral function improvement:

1. Consult Qualified Professionals: Seek evaluation from orthodontists, maxillofacial specialists, or speech pathologists rather than attempting self-directed interventions.

2. Evidence-Based Alternatives: Consider clinically validated approaches for specific concerns:

   • Orthodontic treatment for dental alignment
   • Speech therapy for tongue positioning issues affecting speech
   • Swallowing therapy for dysphagia

3. Critical Evaluation: Approach claims about dramatic facial restructuring through tongue posture with healthy skepticism until clinical evidence emerges.

Conclusion

While proper tongue posture is generally considered part of normal oral function, the specific practice of mewing as a technique for facial restructuring lacks clinical validation. Any potential benefits must be weighed against unknown risks, and individuals should consult healthcare professionals before attempting techniques that claim to alter facial structure.