A well-defined and slender jawline can create a more youthful and elegant appearance. Lately, the mewing trend has gained popularity on social media, with claims that it can help make your face look slimmer. But what exactly is the mewing trend, and does it work? Let’s take a closer look at the details.

What is Mewing?

The mewing trend has recently gained attention on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts. It’s believed that the mewing technique can enhance the structure of the jaw and teeth, making the face appear slimmer.

Mewing is not a medical term. It was introduced by British orthodontist Dr. John Mew in the 1970s as part of his alternative approach to orthodontics.

There are several variations of the mewing technique, but the basic steps are as follows:

• Place the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth, just behind your front teeth, as if pronouncing the letter "n."

• Close your lips and bring your teeth together lightly, avoiding clenching.

• Press the entire surface of your tongue against the roof of your mouth and feel the muscles in your jaw working.

• Hold this position for about 20 seconds, then relax for a moment.

• Repeat the exercise several times a day.

Is the Mewing Technique Effective?

The mewing technique can be performed multiple times a day and is considered safe for your teeth and jaw. However, experts note that there is insufficient research to prove that regularly practicing mewing can make your face noticeably slimmer.

While mewing may be practiced several times a day, it is not powerful enough on its own to significantly alter the shape of your teeth or facial structure. Without additional treatments, such as orthodontics or medical consultation, this simple exercise is unlikely to bring about substantial changes in your jawline.

Nevertheless, the mewing technique may offer some benefits in alleviating certain health issues, including:

• Sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses)

• Sleep apnea

• Speech disorders

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders causing pain or stiffness in the jaw

• Difficulty breathing and swallowing

It’s important to note that mewing should not be relied on as the sole solution for these issues. Proper treatment and medical care are essential to achieve the best results.

Risks of Mewing

Although the mewing trend seems harmless when done independently, performing it without proper guidance can carry risks and potentially affect both the shape of the jaw and mouth function.

Some potential risks of mewing include:

• Increased jaw tension and exacerbation of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

• Chewing and speech difficulties

• Teeth becoming more misaligned or protruding

How to Improve Jaw Shape

Having a jaw that is too wide or asymmetrical is typically not a health concern, though it may affect one’s confidence. A more symmetrical jaw can help create a balanced appearance, enhance your smile, and improve your overall look.

If you want to achieve a more symmetrical jawline, it's best to consult a dentist or a cosmetic specialist for the appropriate treatment. Some options for improving jaw shape include:

• Facial exercises

• Fillers

• Facial contouring

• Jaw implants (plastic surgery)

• Braces

• Tooth extraction

• Dental treatments

While mewing is a technique that can be done on your own, there is no medical evidence supporting its effectiveness in reshaping the jaw. For any concerns regarding your oral, dental, or jaw health, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. You can also use the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, which is available for download on the App Store and Play Store.

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