If you’ve recently gotten braces or have had them for a while, you might wonder if braces hinder mewing progress.
The fact is, some will and some won’t. It depends on how much space and tension the braces have.
We’ll review various braces, how they affect mewing, and ultimately, how to mew with braces!
What is Mewing?
Mewing is a technique that involves proper tongue posture and oral habits, leading to improved facial aesthetics and dental health.
The practice has gained immense popularity due to its accessibility and potential benefits. However, for those with braces, mewing can present unique challenges.
This guide explores the intricacies of mewing with braces, providing insights, tips, and expert advice for those who wish to enhance their appearance while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Mewing with Braces: The Key Considerations
While mewing can deliver impressive results, those with braces must consider several factors to ensure they mew effectively and safely without interfering with their orthodontic treatment. Key considerations include:
- The type of braces being worn
- The direction in which the braces are moving the teeth
- Proper mewing techniques and habits
- Consulting with a dentist or orthodontist for personalized guidance
Types of Braces and How They Impact Mewing
| Type of Braces | Can You Mew? | Description |
| Metal Braces | YES | Metal braces are the most common type, consisting of metal brackets and wires that move teeth into the desired position. While they are the most affordable option, they can be visually unappealing and challenging to clean. |
| Self-Ligating Braces | YES | Like metal braces, self-ligating braces use clips instead of elastics to hold the wires in place. They may shorten treatment time and require fewer dental visits, but they are more expensive than traditional braces. |
| Ceramic Braces | YES | Ceramic braces have brackets and wires that blend with the patient’s teeth, making them less noticeable. They can also speed up treatment compared to metal braces but are more expensive and prone to staining. |
| Lingual Braces | NO | Lingual braces attach to the back of the teeth, making them invisible when smiling. However, they are more expensive, less comfortable, and may not be suitable for severe dental issues. |
| Invisalign | YES | Invisalign consists of clear, removable aligners that gradually shift the teeth into position. They are visually discreet and allow for easy cleaning but are more expensive than traditional braces and may not be suitable for complex dental problems. Mewing with Invisalign may be challenging, especially for those with narrow palates, but it’s generally possible with proper technique. |
Should You Wait To Take Your Braces Off Before Mewing?
In general, you should try to mew with your braces.
Mewing, or maintaining proper postures in general, is extremely important to begin as soon as possible.
Usually, braces only come off after 18-24 months. That’s a lot of time! Purposefully avoiding mewing for this amount of time will have serious setbacks.
If your braces hinder mewing completely, focus on maintaining correct posture and nose breathing.
Is Mewing Better With Braces?
This question depends on what kind of braces you have.
More restricting braces can act as a ‘lock’ for your teeth, so when you mew, there isn’t much expansion because the braces stop the teeth from expanding.
Most braces will still work though.
That being said, braces don’t make mewing any more effective than it is, but it can potentially slow the rate of progress.
That’s why mewing worse with braces in certain situations.
But mewing should still something you should do despite a minor setback, the benefits are just too overwhelming.
Should I Mew Instead Of Braces?
No!
Yes, mewing can straighten your teeth and has multitudes of other benefits.
But it will never be able to have the same changes as a dental tool like braces.
With mewing, it’s slow but effective progress.
Crooked teeth are a pretty severe thing, and depending on which age you are, mewing won’t be enough to straighten your teeth.
If your anywhere above the age of 8 and you have noticable crookedness, consult to your dentists, not mewing.
How To Mew With Braces
Mewing with braces is pretty much the same as mewing normally.
- Put your tongue up against the roof of your mouth.
- Try not to touch the front teeth
- Use a tongue sweep to swallow
- Try to make a suction hold for easier mewing
If you want more details on how to mew, this guide will help you.
If your braces cover the roof of your mouth or take up space in the back of your mouth, don’t attempt mewing.
Tips for Mewing with Braces
To maximize the benefits of mewing with braces, consider these tips for enhancing your practice:
- Consult with your dentist: Always discuss your mewing practice with your dental professional, as they can provide personalized guidance and advice.
- Be patient: Mewing takes time and consistent effort to show results. Stay committed to the practice and be patient with the process.
- Practice proper oral hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential when mewing with braces. Clean your teeth and braces regularly to prevent complications and ensure a healthy mouth.
Conclusion
Mewing with braces can be a viable option for those seeking to improve their facial aesthetics and dental health while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
By understanding the different types of braces, following expert guidance, and practicing proper techniques, individuals can successfully incorporate mewing into their daily routine.
As always, consulting with a dental professional is crucial to ensure a safe and effective mewing practice that complements orthodontic care.