Safety of social media mouth taping trend

Medical professionals have urged caution regarding a social media trend promoting mouth taping in patients with sleep issues.

In a commentary published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, investigators provided an overview of the potential risks of mouth taping, particularly among patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

The investigators noted that although there is sparse literature supporting or disproving the benefits of mouth taping, the practice is contraindicated in patients with undiagnosed upper airway obstructions such as structural abnormalities of the sinonasal cavity, neoplastic processes and inflammatory conditions. Further a large proportion of patients who practice mouth taping may experience a decrease in inspiratory airflow.

The investigators stressed the need for regulations and evidence-based protocols surrounding mouth taping practices in order to ensure patient safety and treatment efficacy.

Read more: JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery

The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.