Mewing: An Examination of Research Findings on its Effectiveness
In the realm of health and beauty, a technique known as mewing has been gaining traction, particularly on social media platforms. The practice, coined by orthodontist Dr. John Mew, who also developed the theory of orthotropics, promises cosmetic improvements to the jawline and facial features. However, it's essential to delve deeper into the facts surrounding this technique.
Dr. Mew's dental license was recently revoked by the General Dental Council due to his criticism of traditional orthodontic treatments and his promotion of unconventional beliefs and practices[1]. His theory behind mewing involves placing the tongue against the roof of the mouth to influence the shape of the upper jaw over time. Yet, no clinical trials or rigorous studies have been published to validate these claims[1][3].
Orthodontic and medical professional organisations generally reject these approaches due to the absence of evidence, and proponents have not produced the scientific validation expected after decades since its proposal[1][5]. Conventional medicine and dentistry regard mewing and orthotropics as pseudoscience, with no scientific evidence or peer-reviewed research supporting their effectiveness for facial shaping or jawline improvement[1][3][5].
Despite this, some users report cosmetic improvements through mewing, but these outcomes are anecdotal and not supported by controlled scientific research or mainstream orthodontic practice[1][4]. It's crucial to note that the supposed benefits of mewing, such as a well-defined jawline, improved alignment of the chin and nose, and potential resolution of sleep apnea, breathing and swallowing problems, speech disorders, temporomandibular joint dysfunctions, and sinusitis, have not been substantiated scientifically.
On the other hand, for those seeking cosmetic changes to their jawline, facial contouring (facial sculpting) may be a suitable option. This cosmetic surgery alters the shape of the jawline, chin, and cheeks[6]. Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections and dermal fillers are often used in facial contouring[7]. A clinician will carry out a thorough consultation and take a full medical history before facial contouring treatment.
Another technique used for face shaping is radiofrequency, which treats skin laxity around the jaw and cheeks[8]. This procedure, while popular, still lacks sufficient evidence to confirm its safety and effectiveness[2]. Radiofrequency causes heat damage to the skin, stimulating increased collagen production in deep layers to repair tissue. However, the variability in radiofrequency procedures and the lack of consistent results make it a questionable choice for those seeking cosmetic improvements.
In conclusion, while mewing has garnered attention for its promised benefits, it's essential to approach this technique with caution. With no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness and mainstream orthodontic practice rejecting it, mewing remains a controversial practice. For those seeking cosmetic changes to their jawline, facial contouring may be a more reliable option, but it's crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions.
References: [1] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-50620580 [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7201848/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6118627/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6379013/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6262180/ [6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279237/ [7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6669678/ [8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6844048/
- The absence of concrete scientific evidence supporting mewing's effectiveness for facial shaping or jawline improvement places it in the realm of pseudoscience, according to conventional medicine and dentistry.
- Like mewing, facial contouring, a cosmetic surgery option, lacks substantial scientific evidence to confirm its safety and effectiveness.
- Radiofrequency, a procedure used for face shaping, causes heat damage to the skin, stimulating collagen production for tissue repair, but results can vary due to inconsistency in procedures.
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