Taping your mouth shut at bedtime may seem like a drastic measure for some. However, “mouth taping” is a growing trend that some people use as a tool to stop snoring or improve their breathing. If it seems extreme to you, you’re not alone, as the practice is somewhat controversial.
Despite the extreme-sounding technique, if approached correctly, mouth taping can have numerous health benefits. Whether you’re looking for a drug-free way to improve your sleep quality or want to see if the practice can reduce your chronic nasal congestion, it may be worth a try.
What Is Mouth Taping?
Mouth taping is exactly what it sounds like – the practice of taping your mouth shut before bed. The practice originated from the idea that we should sleep with our mouths closed and our noses open to encourage better breathing and reduce snoring.
The practice can be as simple as using a single, small piece of tape to close the mouth lightly or using a specialized product, called a “mewing device.”
The Possible Benefits of Mouth Taping
Mouth taping is thought to have several possible health benefits, from improving sleep quality to reducing snoring and sinus issues.
Improved Sleep Quality
One of the main benefits of mouth taping is improved sleep quality. We’re meant to breathe through our noses at night, and taping the mouth shut can encourage deep, calm breathing. This can lead to a more restful, deep sleep, which can help you wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Reduced Snoring
One of the main reasons people try mouth taping is to reduce snoring. By encouraging nasal breathing, the practice may help to reduce the risk of snoring throughout the night. A 2018 study from Austria’s Medical University of Graz found that snoring was reduced in 10 out of 12 patients after a three-month trial of mouth taping.
Reduced Nasal Congestion
Some people also use mouth taping as a way to reduce chronic nasal congestion. Encouraging nasal breathing throughout the night could help to reduce the congestion that can accompany allergies or other chronic conditions.
Are There Any Risks?
While the health benefits of mouth taping certainly sound promising, it’s important to note that the practice shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are risks and potential downsides to mouth taping that are important to consider before trying out the practice.
First and foremost, it’s important to ensure that the practice is safe for you to use. Mouth taping may not be for everyone and can even be dangerous in some cases. For example, if you have asthma, have recently had neck or mouth surgery, or have other concerns about your breathing during sleep, it’s important to consult with a medical professional before attempting mouth taping.
In addition, it’s important to ensure that you’re using the right materials. The adhesive used should be non-toxic and safe to use on the skin. It should be gentle enough to remove easily when you wake up in the morning.
Finally, like all health practices, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Some people may find that they feel claustrophobic when the mouth is taped or they could wake up from sleep feeling dehydrated and anxious.
Tips for Using Mouth Taping Safely
If you’re interested in trying out mouth taping, it’s important to take some precautions to ensure your safety.
Consult with a Medical Professional: Before starting the practice, it’s important to consult with your doctor to make sure that mouth taping is safe for you.
Use the Right Materials: To avoid irritation and potential side effects, use a high-quality adhesive tape that’s non-toxic. Look for a tape that won’t leave a sticky residue when it’s removed.
Start Slowly: If you’re new to the practice, it’s best to start off slowly. Try taping your mouth for 15 minutes or so before going to bed. If you wake up feeling anxious or if you feel claustrophobic, the practice may not be right for you.
Maintain Regular Checkups: If you decide to use mouth taping as a regular practice, make sure to maintain regular checkups with your doctor. They can monitor the practice to make sure it’s not causing any issues.
In Conclusion
Mouth taping may seem like an extreme measure, but if undertaken carefully and with the right precautions, the practice can have numerous health benefits. It could help to reduce snoring, improve sleep quality, and even reduce chronic nasal congestion. However, it’s important to ensure the practice is safe for you to use and take precautions when trying it out.
