A chiseled jawline has long been touted as attractive and a symbol of strength, youth, and confidence. But if you’re not born with one, is it possible to achieve this look?
New “extra-hard” chewing gums suggest they’re like a gym for “facial fitness” that can tone and tighten muscles around the jaw to ultimately reshape it and increase jaw strength.
The claims even go so far as to say a stronger jaw leads to better coordination, athletic performance, and even a longer lifespan! But are backed up by any evidence?
“These products have very limited scientific research,” says James Ruggiero, chair of Dentistry at Hackensack University Medical Center.
What’s worse, he warns these new products may even be hazardous.
“Chewing extra hard gum can be extremely detrimental to your oral health, causing significant damage to your teeth and jaw,” explains Dr. Ruggiero.
Chewing with excessive force, he says, can put a lot of pressure on your teeth, potentially causing them to crack or chip. This risk is even higher if you already have weakened teeth due to cavities or other dental issues.
The constant movement of the jaw can put strain on the TMJ, the hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. This can lead to pain, clicking or popping sounds, and difficulty opening or closing your mouth.
While there’s limited evidence that facial exercises can actually help with facial rejuvenation, and any changes they produce are likely to be subtle, it’s worth noting that carrying excess weight overall can obscure your jawline. Aim for a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.