Introduction

In this episode of Save Your Money, Save Your Teeth, Dr Clifford Yudelman explores the growing trend of mouth taping to improve snoring and promote nasal breathing. Together with Eon Engelbrecht, he examines the current evidence, debunks online myths, and offers practical guidance on safe practice. If you’ve ever wondered whether taping your lips at night can truly benefit your health—or if it’s simply another wellness fad—this is the episode for you.

Chapters:

[00:01:20] What clinical studies have been done on mouth taping for snoring or mild sleep-disordered breathing and what do they actually show?

Most published trials are very small (fewer than 20 participants) and rely on bed-partner reports rather than full sleep studies. They suggest around a 30 % reduction in snoring, but without objective measures (like home oximetry or polysomnography), the findings remain inconclusive.

[00:04:24] Why is the research still so limited?

Because mouth taping is essentially a DIY, no-profit intervention, there’s little commercial incentive to fund large, rigorous trials. Most well-funded sleep studies focus on CPAP machines or oral appliances that promise a return on investment.

[00:06:50] Which persistent online myths about mouth taping actually drive you insane—and how does the evidence debunk those?

Myths that tape cures sleep apnoea, reshapes the jaw or “detoxes” the lungs have no scientific basis. Passive lip closure exerts negligible force on bone, and there is no mechanism by which taping clears lung toxins—such claims are pure marketing.

[00:08:35] Who should absolutely avoid taping and why?

Anyone with moderate-to-severe sleep apnoea, significant nasal obstruction (e.g. deviated septum or polyps), habitual mouth-breathers or those prone to claustrophobia. Taping can worsen hypoxia if nasal airflow collapses.

[00:12:26] What are the key physiological effects or benefits of nasal breathing that underlie the mouth-taping rationale?

Nasal breathing humidifies and filters air, produces nitric oxide to improve oxygen uptake and optimises CO₂ levels for efficient respiration. Taping aims to extend these daytime benefits into sleep, though the overnight effects remain unproven.

[00:15:51] Do you look funny when you’re taped at night? Would your partner laugh? Does it look like you’ve been kidnapped or something?

Standard micropore tape across the lips can look odd and feel claustrophobic, which is why some prefer MyoTape—it has a small gap for drinking or speaking. Partners might find it amusing, but coloured “his and hers” packs can make it a lighter affair.

[00:17:52] What types of tape or commercial seal strips are safe and effective and which might cause skin or respiratory problems?

Use medical-grade, hypoallergenic, latex-free micropore tape or approved MyoTape strips. Avoid household or duct tapes, which leave residue, irritate the skin and can be dangerous if too adhesive.

[00:18:41] What skin and respiratory risks should listeners watch out for, and how can they minimise them?

Watch for redness, dermatitis or micro-tears from adhesive—never reuse strips and change them nightly. If you develop headaches, daytime fatigue or nasal congestion, stop immediately and seek advice.

[00:20:47] Is there any way you can self-test your nasal breathing function before you try the tape?

Yes. Perform a two-minute lip-seal test, then pinch each nostril in turn to check patency. You can also measure your BOLT score (breath-holding time)—20–30 seconds is ideal; under 10 seconds suggests poor nasal breathing.

[00:24:17] Apart from what we said—waking up dead—what warning signs mean it’s time to stop taping and seek professional evaluation?

If you experience worsening headaches, persistent daytime sleepiness, panic or gasping for air, or skin irritation, discontinue taping at once. Keep a symptom diary and consult a sleep physician or ENT before continuing.

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Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast, "Save Your Money Save Your Teeth" on Medical Mondays, is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as dental or medical advice. The insights and opinions expressed by Dr. Clifford Yudelman and any guests are designed to foster a better understanding of dental health, preventive measures, and general well-being, but should not be interpreted as professional dental or medical recommendations. Dr. Clifford Yudelman does not diagnose, treat, or offer prevention strategies for any health conditions directly through this podcast. This platform is not a substitute for the personalized care and advice provided by a licensed dental or healthcare professional. We strongly encourage our listeners to consult with their own dental care providers to address individual dental health needs and concerns. The information shared here aims to empower listeners with knowledge about dental health but must not be used as a basis for making health-related decisions without professional guidance. Your dental care provider is the best source of advice about your dental and overall health. Please always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified health professionals regarding any questions or concerns about your dental health.