The trend known as “mewing” is a do-it-yourself technique popularized on social media, promising to enhance facial aesthetics by reshaping the jawline and midface. Named for British orthodontists John and Mike Mew, the practice is rooted in Orthotropics, which suggests that proper resting tongue posture can influence craniofacial growth. “Hard mewing” is an aggressive variation of this trend, distinguished by the forceful, sustained application of pressure against the roof of the mouth. This amplified technique is often adopted by individuals seeking to accelerate the purported structural changes of the face.
Defining the Practice and Technique
The original concept of mewing, sometimes termed “soft mewing,” involves maintaining a correct resting tongue posture. The entire tongue, including the back third, rests against the hard palate without strain. This position is meant to be a subconscious, all-day habit, promoting nasal breathing with lips sealed and teeth lightly touching. The pressure exerted in this method is gentle and consistent, aiming to create a suction hold against the palate.
“Hard mewing,” in contrast, involves applying the maximum possible force against the maxilla, or upper jaw. This is often achieved through deliberate, high-intensity actions like conscious, forceful swallowing. This movement can transiently apply an estimated three to five pounds of pressure to the palate, significantly greater than the passive pressure of the soft method.
The technique also frequently incorporates continuous, maximal chin tucking. This action is intended to elevate the posterior third of the tongue and force it against the back of the palate. This combination of aggressive swallowing and sustained tension defines the “hard” nature of the practice. Individuals aim to maintain this high-pressure state for extended periods to maximize the purported bone-forming effects.
The Claims of Skeletal Modification
The core tenet supporting hard mewing is derived from Orthotropics, which posits that pressure from the tongue can guide the growth of the maxilla and mandible. This is claimed to lead to a more defined jawline and better facial harmony. Proponents suggest that the consistent, high forces of hard mewing promote horizontal facial growth, enhancing cheekbone projection and improving breathing.
However, the scientific community, including the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), maintains that tongue forces are insufficient to alter mature bone structure. Orthodontic treatments that reliably move bones and teeth rely on controlled forces typically ranging from 100 to 500 grams. In comparison, the average pressure from a resting or active tongue, even when forced, is estimated to be only 10 to 20 grams. This pressure is not enough to induce significant skeletal change in adults whose facial bones have fused.
While proper tongue posture may influence facial growth in young, growing children, the ability of a voluntary, high-force exercise to permanently reshape the adult skull lacks empirical support. Facial structure is determined by a complex interplay of genetics, muscle development, and bone growth. No credible, peer-reviewed scientific studies have validated the claims that DIY hard mewing can achieve the desired skeletal modifications. Relying on this unproven technique may delay seeking evidence-based professional treatment for genuine jaw alignment or breathing issues.
Risks to Oral and Temporomandibular Health
The excessive and often inconsistent force inherent in hard mewing introduces several specific risks to the delicate oral and temporomandibular system. One common concern is the potential for unwanted dental misalignment. The forceful and uneven pressure applied by the tongue against the inner surfaces of the teeth can cause them to shift, leading to bite issues, crowding, or an open bite.
The constant, high-pressure engagement of facial and jaw muscles places significant strain on the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). This strain increases the risk of developing Temporomandibular Joint disorders (TMDs). Symptoms of TMDs include jaw pain, chronic headaches, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, or an audible clicking or popping in the joint. The frequent clenching that often accompanies hard mewing further exacerbates this muscular and joint stress.
Furthermore, improper or excessive force can lead to physical damage to the gums and teeth themselves. The aggressive rubbing of the tongue against the inner dental surfaces can contribute to enamel erosion over time. The pressure can also cause gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth. This exposes the root surface, increasing sensitivity and the risk of periodontal disease.