It’s hard to believe that people are taping their mouths shut at night. This may sound like an extreme measure, but it’s becoming a widespread practice for those who want to improve their sleep quality. Here’s what you need to know about how taping your mouth shut may help improve your sleep.
Potential Benefits
When we sleep, our muscles relax, including the muscles in our throat and mouth. For some people, this relaxation can cause the tongue to block the airway, leading to snoring and even sleep apnea. However, supporters believe that by taping the mouth shut, the air is forced to go through the nose, promoting healthier breathing and better sleep quality. [1]
Improved Breathing: As mentioned, taping your mouth shut may promote better breathing habits. This can lead to fewer snoring episodes and improved sleep quality. One small study found that mouth-taping led to a decrease in snoring and a significant improvement in sleep quality. [3]
Another reason is to help prevent dry mouth. Breathing through the mouth can dry out the throat and mouth, leading to discomfort and potential health issues like gum disease. [1]
Risks and Considerations
While mouth taping may have potential benefits, it’s not a practice that’s right for everyone. Here are some potential risks and considerations to keep in mind:
Nasal Congestion: Tapping your mouth shut may not be the best idea if you have nasal congestion. This can make breathing even more complicated, potentially leading to more severe health issues.[3] For people with undiagnosed or untreated sleep apnea and obstructed nasal passages, mouth tapping can lead to restricted airflow, posing a significant risk. [2]
Anxiety: Some people may experience anxiety or panic attacks from having their mouths taped shut. This can lead to an increase in heart rate and difficulty breathing.[1]
Allergic Reactions: The adhesive used to tape the mouth shut may cause an allergic reaction in some people. If you experience any skin irritation or discomfort, discontinue use immediately.[2]
Taping your mouth shut when you sleep is a trend that’s gaining popularity, but it’s not for everyone. If you want to promote better breathing habits, there are potential risks to keep in mind when taping your mouth shut. Consult a healthcare professional before trying new practices to improve your sleep.
References:
- Summer, J. (2023, February 1). Does mouth-taping stop snoring? Sleep Foundation. Retrieved February 14, 2023, from https://www.sleepfoundation.org/snoring/mouth-taping-for-sleep#:~:text=Mouth%20taping%20might%20be%20beneficial,the%20palate%20and%20the%20tongue.
- Farnsworth, C. (2022, May 26). Mouth tape for sleep: How it works, benefits, and more. Medical News Today. Retrieved February 14, 2023, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mouth-tape-for-sleep#alternatives
- Cleveland Clinic. (2022, September 8). Mouth taping: Is it safe? Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved February 14, 2023, from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/mouth-taping/
