Mewing and jaw exercises: function, evidence and limits
Mewing and jaw exercises are often presented as ways to change the face. The available evidence does not support promising a more defined jawline. Muscle strength, rehabilitating a function and changing facial bone shape are different outcomes.
Can mewing change the jaw?
Orthodontic societies do not recognize evidence that deliberately positioning the tongue reshapes the face in this way. Before-and-after photos taken with different angles and lighting are not enough to establish an effect. British Orthodontic Society; American Association of Orthodontists: mewing.
Our guide to mewing and the evidence explains the difference between online claims and functional rehabilitation.
Greater strength does not mean a different shape
A trial in healthy adults found increased bite force after gum-chewing training, without a significant change in mandibular shape or masseter thickness. The study used training gum, not MyoJaw. Jung et al., 2024.
This distinction prevents a limited functional finding from becoming a cosmetic promise. See our guide to jaw exercises.
Pain, fatigue or locking calls for a different approach
If your jaw becomes painful, locks or feels fatigued, seek professional advice instead of increasing resistance or repetitions. Studies of prolonged chewing report varying effects on discomfort and do not justify a universal training program. Alam et al., 2025.
What about MyoJaw?
MyoJaw is a jaw exerciser that is currently unavailable. No cosmetic transformation or therapeutic effect is promised. If your question concerns teeth clenching, start with our bruxism guide.
Tongue function, jaw exercises and bruxism are different questions
- To understand tongue posture, read our tongue rehabilitation guide.
- If you clench or grind your teeth, explore the uses and limitations of night guards.
- If your concern is cosmetic, a professional examination can help you discuss your situation. An exercise device bought online cannot guarantee the result you want.