Exploring the Trend of Mouth Taping: Benefits and Cautions

Exploring the Trend of Mouth Taping: Benefits and Cautions

It seems like every month, a new life hack emerges, often circulating through social media channels. One of the latest trends stirring discussions is mouth taping, known for its claim to enhance respiratory and oral health while potentially mitigating obstructive sleep apnoea—a condition characterized by disrupted breathing during sleep.

This unusual practice involves placing tape over the mouth prior to bedtime, effectively encouraging nasal breathing, which is presumed to reduce the dangers associated with mouth breathing during sleep.

Proponents of mouth taping argue that it alleviates snoring, fatigue, bad breath, excessive thirst, and focus issues. However, it’s important to note that these assertions have not been rigorously validated by scientific research.

Breathing through the mouth while sleeping is less healthy than breathing through the nose. Photo: Shutterstock

Breathing through the mouth while sleeping is less healthy than breathing through the nose. Photo: Shutterstock

In addition to health benefits during sleep, some advocates suggest mouth taping might offer cosmetic advantages, including fewer wrinkles and a more contoured jawline. However, these claims remain unsubstantiated.

The Sleep Foundation of the US acknowledges that mouth taping can potentially be advantageous for reducing snoring, particularly among individuals with mild sleep apnoea. Yet, evidence does not support its effectiveness in individuals without the condition.

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