LONDON, ON – A viral sleep trend gaining traction on TikTok and other social media platforms is raising red flags among Canadian sleep experts. Mouth taping — the practice of placing tape over the mouth to encourage nasal breathing during sleep — has been widely promoted by influencers and celebrities who claim it improves sleep quality, boosts oral health, and even slows aging. But according to leading Canadian sleep specialist Dr. Brian Rotenberg, the science simply doesn’t support these claims — and the risks may far outweigh any potential benefits.
A recent study published in PLOS One by researchers from Lawson Health Research Institute, London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), and Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry reveals that mouth taping could actually pose serious health dangers, particularly for people with sleep-disordered breathing and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
“It was concerning to us that celebrities and influencers are endorsing mouth taping without scientific evidence,” says Dr. Brian Rotenberg, otolaryngologist and sleep surgeon at St. Joseph’s Health Care London and LHSC. “In the language of social media influencers, it seemed a bit ‘sus,’ so we examined what science is telling us about this trend and whether or not it is safe.”
What the Research Shows
Dr. Rotenberg and his team conducted a systematic review of 86 existing scientific studies, with an in-depth analysis of 10 clinical trials involving 213 patients. Their findings were clear:
- No proven health benefits: Despite widespread claims, there is no strong scientific evidence supporting mouth taping as a method to improve sleep quality or general health.
- Real risks for sleep apnea patients: Mouth taping can worsen sleep-disordered breathing by restricting airflow, especially in individuals with undiagnosed nasal obstructions or OSA. This can increase the risk of suffocation and put additional strain on the heart and lungs.
- Heightened risk for undiagnosed patients: Many people with sleep apnea remain undiagnosed — and using mouth tape could unknowingly exacerbate their condition, leading to serious long-term health consequences like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
“Our research shows that taping the mouth shut during sleep is dangerous, especially among those who may not be aware they have sleep apnea,” adds Dr. Rotenberg. “These individuals are unknowingly making their symptoms worse and putting themselves at greater risk.”
Don’t Rely on TikTok for Medical Advice
While social media can be a fun and engaging source of information, it’s not the place to look for health guidance. Trends like mouth taping may seem harmless, but they can carry hidden dangers when not backed by scientific evidence.
“We need to make health decisions based on strong scientific evidence,” says Jess Rhee, a resident physician at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. “Our hope is that people stop taping their mouths during sleep and recognize it is dangerous.”
Concerned About Your Breathing During Sleep? Talk to an Expert.
If you snore, wake up tired, or suspect you may have sleep apnea, don’t self-diagnose or turn to viral trends. Speak to a qualified sleep specialist who can guide you with evidence-based care.
Dr. Brian Rotenberg and his team at St. Joseph’s Health Care London are here to help. Book a consultation today to get a proper diagnosis and safe, effective treatment tailored to your needs.
Request a Sleep Assessment with Dr. Rotenberg Now Your sleep health is too important to trust to trends. Get the expert care you deserve.
