A growing trend on TikTok involving the practice of taping one’s mouth shut during sleep is drawing concern from medical professionals, who warn of potential health risks ranging from worsened sleep apnea to suffocation. Proponents of the practice claim it promotes nasal breathing, leading to improved sleep quality and reduced snoring, but doctors say the purported benefits are largely unsupported by scientific evidence.
Dr. Kimberly Hutchison, a neurologist and sleep medicine expert at Oregon Health & Science University, cautioned against the practice. “The studies behind mouth tape are small, the benefits are modest and the potential risks are there,” she said.
While breathing through the nose is generally considered healthier than mouth breathing – the nose acts as a natural filter, trapping allergens and dust – experts emphasize that forcibly restricting breathing isn’t the solution. Mouth breathing itself isn’t typically a major health concern for adults, but can lead to dry mouth, irritated throats, and bad breath. It’s also frequently associated with snoring.
Doctors are advising against self-treating with mouth tape, suggesting alternative solutions for those seeking to improve their breathing during sleep. Dr. David Schulman, a sleep doctor at Emory University, recommends exploring options like prescription mouthpieces designed to open airways or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines. Lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and smoking cessation, can also be beneficial.
The concern extends beyond simply ineffective treatment; mouth taping could mask underlying sleep disorders. Obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to airway blockage, is often linked to both open-mouth breathing and snoring. Untreated sleep apnea can have significant health consequences.
“The reason sleep apnea can be bad is that any decrease in the quality of sleep can affect you day to day or over the course of your life,” explained Dr. Brian Chen, a sleep doctor at the Cleveland Clinic. “Depending on how bad the sleep is, you may just feel sleep deprived or require more sleep.”
Medical professionals are urging individuals experiencing breathing difficulties during sleep to seek a proper diagnosis. Dr. Schulman of Emory University advocates for sleep testing, including options available for at-home use. “It’s always better to know than not know,” he said. “And if you know that something’s going on and you choose not to pursue therapy, at least you’re making an educated decision.”
