The internet trend known as “mewing” is a do-it-yourself method for enhancing facial structure and jawline definition. This practice, which centers on specific tongue positioning, gained traction online after being advocated by proponents of orthotropics, a field focused on facial growth guidance. Mewing is often presented as a non-invasive way to potentially correct various orthodontic concerns. Many people question the safety and efficacy of the technique, specifically whether this self-directed practice can inadvertently cause or worsen an overbite. This article will investigate the mechanics of the mewing technique and assess the potential for adverse jaw movement.
Understanding the Practice of Mewing
Mewing is named after Dr. Mike Mew, who, along with his father, Dr. John Mew, promoted the principles of orthotropics. The practice involves maintaining a specific, high tongue posture throughout the day and night. The goal is to rest the entire body of the tongue—the tip, middle, and back—flush against the hard palate, or the roof of the mouth.
This posture encourages nasal breathing and applies gentle, consistent upward pressure to the maxilla, the upper jaw. Supporters believe this pressure stimulates the forward and outward growth of the maxilla, leading to a broader palate and a more defined jawline. The correct technique requires the tongue to be suctioned against the palate without the tip pushing against the front teeth.
Identifying the Causes of Overbite
An overbite, or deep bite, occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively in a vertical direction. A slight vertical overlap of about two millimeters is considered normal and healthy for proper biting function. When this overlap exceeds roughly three millimeters, it is categorized as a malocclusion.
The causes of an excessive overbite are categorized as skeletal, dental, or acquired. A skeletal overbite involves an underlying discrepancy in the size or position of the jawbones, such as a lower jaw that is too small (retrognathic). Dental overbites are caused by the misalignment of the teeth themselves, despite a normal jaw structure, often involving the over-eruption of the lower front teeth. Acquired causes often stem from prolonged childhood habits, such as extended thumb-sucking or a persistent tongue-thrusting habit.
The Link Between Mewing Technique and Adverse Jaw Movement
The core query regarding mewing and overbite relates directly to the application of force. Proper mewing is based on the idea that consistent, gentle upward force from the tongue on the palate can guide growth and alignment, intending to correct a malocclusion.
The risk of developing an adverse outcome, like an overbite or other forms of misalignment, arises almost exclusively from incorrect or forced execution of the technique. Specifically, if the practitioner pushes the tip of the tongue forward against the back of the upper front teeth, this action creates a force vector that can lead to dental tipping. This continuous forward force can push the upper teeth outward, a movement known as proclination, which can either create or severely worsen an overbite.
Furthermore, if the tongue’s force is applied unevenly or too aggressively, it can result in other issues like asymmetric facial growth or temporomandibular joint disorders. The self-directed, aggressive “mewing” practiced without professional supervision risks applying detrimental forces to the dental structures. For individuals with an existing deep bite, improper tongue pressure can exacerbate the condition by forcing the upper teeth further over the lower teeth.
Professional Guidance and Safe Oral Posture
Significant changes to the skeletal structure of the face and jaw require professional orthodontic or orthognathic intervention. Orthodontists utilize established methods like braces, clear aligners, or surgical procedures to correct malocclusions, especially those with a skeletal component. Relying on self-practice alone to fix or prevent a condition like an overbite is not supported by scientific consensus.
The principle of proper tongue posture, the basis of mewing, is recognized by many health professionals as beneficial for general oral health and breathing. The tongue should naturally rest against the palate, which is a passive, healthy resting position. Individuals concerned about their bite alignment or facial development should consult a qualified orthodontist or myofunctional therapist for a proper diagnosis and professionally guided treatment plan, rather than attempting self-correction through aggressive or unverified techniques.