Taped mouth breathing – have you heard of it? This practice is becoming increasingly popular as a way to improve breathing and promote better sleep. Mouth taping is said to be effective for increasing nose breathing and reducing snoring, but is it safe? It’s a question many of our Bend patients are asking and we’re here to clear up the myths around mouth taping and breathing. In this article we will take a look at the pros and cons of mouth taping, as well as what our board certified Otolaryngologists and head and neck surgeons have to say about it.
What is Mouth Taping?
Taped mouth breathing is a technique where a piece of tape is used to hold the mouth closed at night. The idea is that it encourages people to breathe through their noses rather than their mouths and can help to reduce snoring and sleep apnea. Mouth taping can also help reduce symptoms of allergies, dry mouth, asthma and other respiratory issues.
The Pros of Mouth Taping
Advocates of mouth taping claim that it can be beneficial for a range of health conditions. It is said to encourage nasal breathing and improve oxygen intake, which can help optimize sleep, reduce snoring and alleviate congestion. It can also help to train the muscles involved in nasal breathing, providing lasting benefits for sleep health. In addition, mouth taping can help to keep the mouth closed during sleep, which is important for those with sleep apnea or upper airway resistance syndrome.
The Cons of Mouth Taping
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to mouth taping that need to be taken into consideration. One of the main concerns is the possibility of choking or suffocation if the tape becomes loose or obstructs the airways during sleep. Mouth taping can also be uncomfortable for some people, especially if they are unable to keep their mouth closed. It can also cause dry mouth or soreness of the mouth or throat if not performed correctly.
Expert Advice on Mouth Taping
So, is mouth taping safe? To get to the bottom of this question, we asked our board certified Otolaryngologists and head and neck surgeons what they had to say on the matter. Dr. Mingus, one of our leading experts, says that while mouth taping can be effective for some patients, it is not recommended for everyone. Taping the mouth closed at night can lead to issues with jaw and upper airway alignment and can interfere with the autonomic nervous system. In some cases, Dr. Mingus recommends breathing exercises and other non-invasive treatments that promote breathing through the nose during sleep.
Final Thoughts
Mouth taping is a popular technique for improving breathing and sleep, but is it safe? The answer is that it depends on the individual and their particular health concerns. Mouth taping can be an effective tool for some patients, but it is not recommended for everyone. Our board certified Otolaryngologists and head and neck surgeons recommend breathing exercises and other non-invasive treatments as a safer alternative to mouth taping. If you are considering this technique, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine if it is right for you.
