Mewing Explained: Can It Fix Bite and Jawline?

Mewing is a tongue posture practice that has sparked online debate. Proponents claim that keeping the tongue against the palate with the teeth lightly closed can influence facial growth and improve aesthetics. This guide breaks down what mewing is, where it came from, what it claims to do, and what science says today.

What is mewing?

Mewing is a technique that asks you to rest the entire tongue on the roof of the mouth and keep the teeth barely touching. It was popularized by Dr. John Mew and his son Mike Mew, who describe it as orthotropics — a non-surgical approach to influence facial growth.

Where did mewing come from?

The idea traces to debates about how facial bones grow in response to muscle use. Dentist Melvin Moss proposed that bones adapt to soft tissues, and John Mew extended this idea to the face and teeth. He argued that changing daily habits could guide the jawline’s development in children and teenagers. In the late 1950s to 1970s, they suggested that modern diets and small jaws contribute to crowding and bite problems.

How does it work, according to its creators

Supporters say the practice helps broaden the upper jaw, aligns the bite, and reduces jaw discomfort by encouraging proper tongue posture. They claim benefits include corrected bite and crooked teeth, improved facial symmetry, a stronger chin, a more defined jawline, and even better sleep and posture. They present mewing as a natural, noninvasive alternative to cosmetic surgery.

Does it actually work?

There is some truth that lifestyle and growth influence facial structure, especially in children. The American Association of Orthodontists acknowledges that tongue posture can affect speech and bite, but there is no solid evidence that mewing alone reshapes bone or delivers reliable results in adults. Claims of dramatic changes from daily practice are not supported by credible research.

What explains the effects?

1. Photos can exaggerate results due to lighting or head position.
2. Many followers are teenagers or young adults undergoing natural facial development.
3. Images may be edited or staged to look more dramatic.

Is mewing safe?

Experts warn that incorrect tongue placement can worsen bite issues or cause discomfort. If practiced incorrectly, mewing may lead to alignment problems that require braces or other treatment.

What are the alternatives?

• Correcting bite with braces or clear aligners, overseen by an orthodontist.
• Addressing mouth breathing with habit therapy, nasal devices, or surgery when indicated.
• Common sleep apnea management including weight loss, quitting smoking, or CPAP therapy in severe cases.
• Speech therapy for articulation concerns.
• Aging-related facial changes can be treated with cosmetic options like fillers or botulinum toxin when desired.
• Double chin related to excess weight can improve with weight loss; contouring procedures for the jawline or nose may be considered with professional guidance.
• TMJ disorders are treated with pain relief, mouth guards, physical therapy, and rarely surgery; stress management can help some patients.

Expert opinion

Expert comment: A licensed orthodontist notes that tongue posture can influence bite and speech, but mewing lacks strong, peer‑reviewed evidence as a standalone treatment. For real results, rely on evidence‑based orthodontic care under a clinician's guidance.

Short summary

Mewing remains controversial and is not proven to reshape facial bones in adults. While tongue posture may affect how you speak and bite, it should not replace professional orthodontic care. If you’re concerned about jaw alignment or facial aesthetics, seek guidance from a qualified dentist or orthodontist and consider established treatments.

Key insight: Tongue posture can influence function, but bone changes require evidence-based care from professionals; mewing is not a substitute for orthodontic treatment.