Is Mouth Taping Dangerous? A New Study Says It Can Be

Many TikTok videos promoting mouth taping suggest that it can enhance respiratory and oral health, and even reduce the risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Yet, doctors warn that this practice may not be safe for those who naturally breathe through their mouth while sleeping due to reasons such as nasal congestion, undiagnosed OSA, airway obstruction, or other inflammatory issues.

These concerns were raised in a recent study published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery. The study followed 54 individuals with OSA during drug-induced sleep endoscopy and observed their airflow with closed versus open mouths. It was noted that in 12 out of 54 participants, airflow during inhalation significantly decreased when the mouth was closed. Additionally, a connection was found between velopharyngeal obstruction and reduced airflow with a closed mouth.

Although the benefits of mouth taping at night, particularly in relation to OSA, are not extensively researched, it is crucial to understand your personal risk before trying this trend. If you are contemplating mouth taping, here’s what you should know:

Is mouth taping dangerous?

If you can easily breathe through your nose while lying down and do not exhibit symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, you may consider trying mouth taping. However, it is advisable to have your sinuses examined by a healthcare provider to rule out any obstructions, deviated septum, or mild OSA, which can raise the risk of health issues like high blood pressure and heart disease.

It is worth mentioning that a small 2015 study suggested that individuals with mild sleep apnea who sleep with their mouths open might benefit from using porous tape to reduce snoring and apneas. Yet, further research is needed to confirm the efficacy of mouth taping.

If approved by a doctor, mouth taping could help you breathe through your nose, potentially preventing dry-mouth sensation upon waking. However, using mouth taping for cosmetic purposes like jawline definition or wrinkle reduction may not yield consistent results.

If you experience snoring or difficulty breathing through your nose due to allergies, congestion, or other health issues, consulting a medical professional before attempting mouth taping is essential. A doctor or sleep specialist can evaluate you for sleep disorders like OSA and recommend evidence-based treatments such as mouth guards or airway-opening procedures.

Ultimately, mouth taping may not be suitable for everyone, despite its popularity on TikTok. If you have concerns about nighttime breathing issues, seeking advice from a healthcare provider is the safest approach.