‘Mewing’ creator John Mew dead at 96-years-old

Professor John Mew, the British orthodontist whose pioneering yet controversial theories on facial posture ignited the global ‘mewing’ trend, has passed away at the age of 96. His death marks the end of an era for a figure who spent decades advocating for natural approaches to facial and jaw development, leaving behind a legacy that continues to spark debate within both traditional orthodontics and the broader health community.

Mew dedicated his extensive career to the field he termed “orthotropics,” a distinct practice centered on the belief that proper facial and jaw growth can be achieved through correct tongue placement, nasal breathing, and efficient swallowing. He argued that these natural mechanisms were crucial for optimal facial aesthetics and overall well-being, proposing an alternative paradigm to conventional orthodontic treatments that often involve braces or surgical interventions. His approach emphasized prevention and natural development, suggesting that many common orthodontic issues could be averted by simply adopting correct oral posture from a young age.

Despite the passionate advocacy for his methods, Professor Mew encountered significant resistance and ultimately faced discreditation from established dental and orthodontic organizations. Mainstream professional bodies largely dismissed his theories as lacking sufficient scientific evidence, often viewing them as unproven and potentially harmful alternatives to accepted clinical practices. This professional ostracism, however, did little to deter Mew, who remained steadfast in his conviction that his work offered profound benefits for facial development and general health, even as he was stripped of his dental license.

Paradoxically, it was in the digital age that Mew’s once-fringe ideas found an unprecedented platform and a massive, enthusiastic audience. The concept of ‘mewing’ – specifically, the technique of resting the tongue flat against the roof of the mouth – exploded onto platforms like TikTok, transforming into a viral internet phenomenon. Millions of users, drawn by the promise of improved jawlines and enhanced facial structures without surgical intervention, adopted and shared the technique, propelling it into one of the most pervasive TikTok trends of recent years, demonstrating the power of social media to amplify unconventional health practices.

This digital resurgence dramatically elevated the profile of ‘mewing’, captivating a global audience and solidifying its place in contemporary lifestyle discussions. John Mew’s son, Mike Mew, a fellow orthodontist, has actively continued to champion and expand upon his father’s work, ensuring the principles of orthotropics remain relevant and visible in the public eye. Their combined efforts have fueled an ongoing fascination with natural facial enhancement, reaching individuals seeking non-invasive methods to address aesthetic and functional concerns related to their oral and facial structures.

Professor John Mew’s passing undeniably closes a significant chapter for a figure who, despite persistent controversies, profoundly impacted both the orthodontic world and internet culture. His legacy ensures that the debate surrounding natural approaches to health and beauty will continue, particularly as online platforms increasingly become sources for medical and wellness information. This development is likely to reignite critical discussions about the efficacy, safety, and responsible popularization of unconventional health practices that gain traction online, highlighting the profound and sometimes unpredictable influence a single idea can exert when amplified by social media.