One of the most common questions I hear is whether your tongue should touch your teeth when mewing.
The answer is a resounding no.
In this article, I will explain what proper tongue posture is, where your tongue should be when mewing, and why touching your teeth with your tongue can damage them. I will also provide tips on how to stop touching your teeth with your tongue.
What is Proper Tongue Posture?
Proper tongue posture is the position of your tongue when your mouth is closed.
Your tongue should rest against the roof of your mouth, with the tip of your tongue slightly behind your front teeth.
This posture is important for proper breathing, swallowing, and speaking. When your tongue is in the correct position, it provides a multitude of health and aesthetic benefits.
Some of these are more pronounced features, straighter teeth, and sharper jawlines.
Having incorrect tongue posture can be detrimental if not corrected within 1-2 months, so it’s important to be mindful and aware of any initial body cues.
Should Your Tongue Be Touching The Back Of Your Teeth?
No, your tongue should not be touching the back of your teeth.
Touching the back of your teeth with your tongue will slowly cause them to shift forward over time.
This is because the constant force generated from your tongue will have the same effect that it will in widening the palate. The gradual force is going to cause a shift eventually.
Not only that, but having your tongue against your teeth causes the forward forces to go to your teeth instead of the front of your palate, which will lead to ineffective mewing.
The forward forces applied from the tip of the tongue are essential in not only widening the front area of the palate but also for achieving forward growth.
How Touching Your Teeth With Your Tongue Damages Them
When you press your tongue against your teeth, you create pressure that will lead to your teeth tipping forward over a long period of time.
This is because your tongue is a powerful muscle, and constantly pushing against your teeth can cause wear and tear, weakening the tooth structure.
Constantly touching your teeth with your tongue can also contribute to malocclusions.
This can cause problems with chewing, speech, and even breathing; malocclusions can lead to more serious dental issues.
Summary — What To Do
Proper tongue posture is important for dental health and overall well-being.
Your tongue should rest against the roof of your mouth, with the tip of your tongue slightly behind your front teeth.
When mewing, your tongue should be in the same position, with a small space between your tongue and teeth. Touching your teeth with your tongue can lead to malocclusions and outward teeth.