The recording in the mouth does not really improve sleep

The mouth trend may not only be ineffective – it could be dangerous. The popular “sleep hack” implies closing your mouth at night to encourage the breathing of the nose, with influencers saying that it heals everything, the breathing of the mouth and the bad breath to reshape your jaw.

Despite the viral demands on social networks, new research shows that the risks probably prevail over potential advantages.

Does the oral recording work?

A new review, published in Plos anoted that there was not much high quality research on the advantages of oral recording. The researchers analyzed 10 studies and included a total of 213 patients.

Only two studies have shown minor improvements for people with light obstructive apnea. However, the majority did not argue the assertions according to which the recording of the mouth improves sleep apnea or other sleep disorders.

“The majority which has a mechanical reason for a blocked nose – very bad allergies, nasal polyps, a deviated septum, a nasal tumor that you do not even know – these things will not improve with oral recording. And dentistry, said very well.

Four out of 10 studies have highlighted serious risks, including asphyxiation (suffocation).

Another recent review of the oral recording has reached a similar conclusion: evidence of the efficiency of the oral recording is simply lacking.

Is recording the mouth really dangerous?

A recording on the palate while sleep can be risky, as you cannot wake up in time if your breathing is blocked. For people with nasal congestion or conditions such as nasal polyps, oral recording could cause suffocation during sleep.

Most people do not have to worry about dying of the mouth recording, but practice could worsen your sleep apnea, said Rotenberg.

It is estimated that 9 out of 10 people with obstructive sleep apnea do not know that they have the condition. Untreated sleep apnea can increase blood pressure or heart problems.

“You spot your mouth because your nose is blocked. So when we think, your throat is blocked, your nose is blocked, and now you type your mouth. What remains to breathe at this point,” he added.

Some people also use domestic adhesive tape instead of products designed for skin, which increases the risk of misuse or skin irritation. Even when used properly, oral recording could cause anxiety, claustrophobia and allergic reactions.

Could a recording in the mouth help some people?

While some people suffering from slight sleep apnea could benefit from a mouth registration, most people who try it for a general sleep improvement do not see real advantages.

Oral breathing can cause cavities, dry mouth or bad breath. If your health care provider confirms that you have no sleep apnea, a deviated septum, or tumors or polyps that clog your nose, the oral recording could be harmless, Rotenberg said.

“For this group of people, at that time, of course, why not?” There is no real risk of damage. And there are probably a large number of people who meet these criteria. The problem I have is that influencers and celebrities of social media approve this for everyone there, and it is very irresponsible, “he added.

Even studies suggesting minor improvements were small and inconsistent. And not all participants reported a relief from snoring or better sleep.

Until better searches are available, experts recommend talking to a health care provider before trying sleep hacks such as recording the mouth.