Should I Try Mouth Taping?

Ever since Breathe was released, mouth taping has been a popular wellness trend.

Is it a good idea? 

Well… it depends 🤔

Mouth taping is exactly what it sounds like: taping your mouth shut [with a gentle, skin safe tape] while you sleep to encourage nose breathing. 

We ABSOLUTELY want to prioritize nose breathing during sleep. Breathing through the mouth affects tongue posture, which impacts airway, and contributes to snoring and sleep disordered breathing (including apnea). 

BUT, If someone struggles to breathe through the nose because of sinus congestion, allergies or structural issues like a deviated septum or high narrow palate, mouth taping can actually make breathing worse. 

Secondly, if someone doesn't have the tongue strength to keep their tongue elevated at the roof of their mouth, it can still rest low and cause airway collapse. 

If your nasal airway is open and your tongue posture is ideal, mouth taping can help the mouth stay closed through the night. 

Studies are showing that: 

• Those who already predominantly nose breath show no benefit

• Those who occasionally mouth breathe see significant sleep improvement

• Those who predominantly mouth breath can see worsened sleep quality. 

If you want to try it at home:

• Try it during the day first

• Make sure you are able to maintain correct tongue posture 

• Use mouth tape alongside a nasal dilator or nasal strips.

**OF COURSE, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional before trying something new. 

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