Mouth Taping During Sleep? It Hasn’t Been Widely Studied

Released in May 2020 as the world pondered an air-borne virus, the book Breath turned into an improbable NY Times bestseller. Advocating nose-breathing above all, Breath looked at the growing phenomenon of mouth taping to encourage (more like forcing) nose breathing during sleep. Many more books have come along each trying to take nasal breathing to the next level.

Forbes Magazine recently covered the phenomenon in a May 16 article, suggesting a modicum of caution. “Advocates of mouth taping suggest that it promotes nasal breathing, which can improve snoring, dry mouth and sleep quality,” said Audrey Yoon, with Stanford Health Care Sleep Medicine Center in the article. "But not everyone is sold on the concept, and some medical experts advise against making mouth taping for sleep part of your nightly bedtime routine,” writes Forbes’ Brooke Williams. “Before you try out the method for yourself, here’s what to know about the potential benefits and drawbacks of mouth taping for sleep. Since the risks of mouth taping haven’t yet been studied and sleep experts haven’t created guidelines for doing it safely, it’s important to speak with your doctor before giving it a go.”

Potential benefits of mouth taping may include nasal breathing, which is believed to be more beneficial than breathing through the mouth. Nasal breathing is more efficient in terms of oxygen absorption. “The nasal passage filters, humidifies and warms the air, which can improve the oxygenation of blood.

In a follow up article, a number of medical experts with the ASBA will release their recommendations about the many of the products currently available, as most consumers are confused by the myriad of choices.

Source: Chris Vu, ASBA