Mewing: Fact or Fiction? An In-Depth Look at the Controversial Technique

In recent years, a technique known as mewing has gained significant attention, especially on social media platforms. This method involves maintaining a specific tongue position against the roof of the mouth, purported to offer benefits such as a refined jawline, improved facial structure, and relief from jaw pain and orthodontic issues. The technique traces its origin back to Dr. John Mew in the 1970s. However, the method sparks controversy and raises questions about its effectiveness and safety.

The Concept of Mewing

Mewing is a technique that claims to change the shape of your jawline and improve facial structure and dental health. The process involves maintaining a certain position of the tongue against the roof of the mouth. The technique, originated in the 1970s, has been promoted by Dr. John Mew and his son. It is suggested that mewing can be a natural cosmetic correction to improve overall jaw posture and avoid invasive oral and maxillofacial surgery. The method is non-invasive and is said to have potential health and aesthetic benefits. Mewing can help reduce jaw-related pain, double chin, cheekbone development, and can be an alternative to surgery for various conditions. It can also help combat snoring, sleep apnea, and improve overall body posture.

Mewing and its Media Attention

The Netflix documentary 'Open Wide' explores the viral trend of 'mewing' and its impact on facial structure and dental health. The documentary offers a balanced view of the trend and its impact on beauty standards, self-esteem, and the pursuit of perfection in the digital age. The rise of 'mewing' on social media, criticisms from the medical community, and personal stories of individuals who have turned to 'mewing' for facial structure improvement have all been discussed.

Controversies and Criticisms

Despite the hype surrounding mewing, there is limited scientific research to support its claims, and the General Dental Council in the UK has taken away John Mew’s dental license due to unconventional practices. Improper mewing can lead to dental issues such as misaligned teeth, jaw pain, and speech problems. The founder of the London School of Orthotropics, John Mew, has faced allegations of misconduct and was stripped of his license.

Mewing among Other Facial Workouts

The technique of mewing stands among various facial workouts and techniques, such as face yoga, jaw training, and electric facials, that claim to impact facial structure and dental health. Face yoga can help firm up skin, reduce wrinkles, and chisel the jawline, while jaw training involves chewing on a silicone ball to strengthen facial and jaw muscles. Electric facials use electric currents to promote firm skin, circulation, and hydration. However, the lack of scientific evidence to support mewing, the potential risks of overtraining jaw muscles, and the benefits of microcurrent facials have been pointed out by experts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while mewing might seem like a promising and non-invasive technique to improve facial aesthetics and health, its effectiveness and safety are still under question. There is a lack of scientific evidence to support the claims made by proponents of mewing. Moreover, improper practice of the technique can lead to dental health issues. Thus, it is recommended to seek advice from a dental surgeon rather than relying on untested techniques like mewing.