How to Do Mewing: A Guide to Transforming Your Jawline and Facial Structure

Does Mewing Actually Work?

Mewing has become an increasingly popular practice in the realm of facial aesthetics, with enthusiasts claiming it can reshape the face, improve jawlines, and even alleviate conditions like sleep apnea and snoring. This guide explores how to do mewing effectively and addresses common questions like whether it can fix overbites, change facial structure, or impact issues like TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder). We’ll also look at how long it takes to see results, before-and-after possibilities, and the science behind mewing.

What is Mewing?

Mewing is the practice of proper tongue posture, popularized by Dr. John Mew and his son, Dr. Mike Mew, who are orthodontists. The technique involves placing the tongue flat against the roof of the mouth rather than letting it rest at the bottom. This tongue placement is believed to help in naturally reshaping the face and improving the jawline over time.

How Do You Do Mewing?

To begin mewing, follow these steps:

1. Close Your Lips: Keep your lips gently closed without forcing them together.
2. Place Your Tongue on the Roof of Your Mouth: Flatten your tongue against the roof of your mouth, with the tip of the tongue just behind your upper front teeth but not touching them.
3. Keep the Tongue Firmly Pressed: Apply gentle pressure across the entire tongue, not just the tip, to engage the muscles fully.
4. Breathe Through Your Nose: Mewing requires nasal breathing, as mouth breathing can disrupt tongue posture.

Practicing mewing consistently is key for achieving results, though it may feel unnatural at first. Gradually, as your muscles adapt, it will feel more comfortable and even become second nature.

How Mewing Works

Mewing is based on the idea that the tongue's pressure against the palate can influence the growth of facial bones, particularly in younger people. By maintaining proper tongue posture, proponents believe it can gradually adjust the alignment of the jaw and the facial profile, leading to a more defined appearance. However, results vary, and there are ongoing debates about its effectiveness.

Common Questions About Mewing

Can Mewing Fix Overbites?

An overbite occurs when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth significantly. While mewing may provide slight changes to the alignment of the jaw by encouraging forward tongue posture, it is unlikely to fully correct an overbite, especially if it is severe. Orthodontic treatment may still be necessary for significant cases.

Can Mewing Change Your Face?

Mewing advocates claim it can alter the facial structure by promoting more forward growth of the jaw, enhancing cheekbones, and potentially reducing a double chin. The goal is a more symmetrical and balanced face. While anecdotal evidence exists, scientific studies proving significant facial changes due to mewing are limited. Still, those who practice mewing often report changes in their appearance over time.

Can Mewing Cause or Fix TMJ?

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) affects the jaw joint and muscles, often leading to pain and discomfort. Mewing’s impact on TMJ is inconclusive. While it may help some by promoting a more balanced jaw position, improper tongue posture could potentially worsen TMJ symptoms. It’s essential for those with TMJ issues to consult a professional before starting mewing.

Can Mewing Fix a Receding Chin?

A receding chin, where the chin appears to slope backward, can impact one’s profile. Mewing might promote forward jaw growth, which could slightly improve the appearance of a receding chin. However, the effectiveness of mewing in significantly altering the chin structure is debated. Surgical options may still be more reliable for those seeking substantial changes.

Can Mewing Ruin Your Face?

Mewing, if done improperly, could theoretically lead to issues. Applying too much pressure or holding an unnatural posture could strain facial muscles or exacerbate jaw issues. The key is gentle pressure and maintaining proper form. If done correctly, there is minimal risk, but extreme methods can potentially lead to unwanted outcomes.

Mewing for a Defined Jawline

A prominent benefit of mewing, as claimed by many practitioners, is an enhanced jawline. By engaging the muscles in the jaw and neck, mewing can contribute to a sharper, more defined jawline, especially when combined with exercises that strengthen the facial muscles. Consistent practice, along with a healthy diet and posture improvement, may amplify these effects.

Mewing and Double Chin Reduction

A double chin is often caused by excess fat or a weak jawline structure. Mewing, by encouraging a forward jaw posture, can help tighten the muscles in the chin and neck area, potentially reducing the appearance of a double chin over time. However, for substantial reduction, mewing should be part of a holistic approach, including exercise and a balanced diet.

Can Mewing Help with Sleep Apnea and Snoring?

Mewing may have a positive impact on conditions like sleep apnea and snoring by promoting nasal breathing and proper tongue posture, which can prevent the tongue from blocking the airway. While mewing alone may not cure sleep apnea, consistent practice could potentially reduce snoring and mild apnea symptoms, especially when combined with other breathing exercises.

Mewing Results: What to Expect

The effectiveness of mewing depends on factors like age, genetics, and consistency of practice. Younger individuals may experience more noticeable changes due to ongoing bone growth. Before-and-after photos shared by some mewing enthusiasts show gradual improvements in jaw definition, chin prominence, and overall facial symmetry.

How Long Does Mewing Take?

Mewing is not a quick fix; it requires consistent practice over months or even years. Some individuals report visible results in six months, while others may take longer to see changes. Patience and consistency are essential, as mewing relies on gradual muscle adaptation and potential bone restructuring.

Mewing for Specific Conditions

Mewing for Overbites and Underbites

While mewing may assist with minor alignment issues, it is unlikely to replace traditional orthodontic treatments for significant overbites or underbites. That said, proper tongue posture can still contribute to a more balanced facial appearance by promoting correct jaw alignment.

Mewing for the Jawline and Face

Mewing can help tone the jawline and may enhance facial structure by training the muscles involved in proper posture. A more defined jawline and slight changes in cheek prominence are often observed by those who commit to consistent mewing practice.

Mewing for Aesthetics: Before and After

One of the best ways to gauge mewing’s effectiveness is to take before-and-after photos. Over time, practitioners have reported noticeable changes in their jawline, chin, and overall facial structure. However, changes are subtle and may take years to manifest fully.

Is Mewing Safe?

Mewing is generally safe when practiced correctly. However, individuals with TMJ or other jaw issues should be cautious, as incorrect posture can aggravate these conditions. Always use gentle pressure and avoid straining the jaw or tongue muscles.

Final Thoughts on Mewing: Does It Actually Work?

Mewing can contribute to facial aesthetics by promoting correct posture, improving the jawline, and potentially impacting issues like snoring and sleep apnea. While scientific evidence is limited, anecdotal reports suggest that consistent practice may lead to subtle improvements. Mewing is a long-term commitment, and while it may not deliver dramatic results, it is a safe and natural method worth trying.

Conclusion

Mewing is an intriguing practice that has captured the interest of people worldwide for its potential to reshape the face and enhance jawline definition. While it may not replace traditional orthodontic treatments for conditions like overbites or TMJ, it can still play a role in promoting overall facial harmony and posture. With patience and consistent practice, mewing could lead to noticeable changes in your appearance and possibly even benefit your breathing and sleep quality.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your jawline, fix a receding chin , or explore a natural approach to facial aesthetics, mewing offers a unique solution that is easy to incorporate into daily life. Remember that results may vary, and consulting a professional is always recommended if you have specific concerns.