Can Mouth Taping Reduce Snoring and Drooling?

Dr. Marashi says the answer isn’t black and white. “It can help in some cases because it encourages the mouth to stay closed and promotes nasal breathing.”

He goes on to explain why that matters: “When the mouth falls open during sleep, the airway can become less stable, and that can contribute to snoring. Sleeping with the mouth open also causes the mouth to dry out, which increases drooling and bacterial growth.”

The Pros and Cons

While mouth taping may promote nasal breathing, Dr. Marashi emphasizes it doesn’t fix the reason someone is mouth breathing to begin with. “The potential benefit is that it may encourage nasal breathing, which helps keep the mouth properly hydrated with saliva. Saliva is essential for protecting teeth from cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.”

He also notes, “the downside is that it does not address the root cause…People with sleep apnea, chronic nasal congestion, breathing disorders, or severe allergies should speak with a physician first. If someone cannot comfortably breathe through their nose while awake, mouth taping is not a good idea.”

If you’re thinking about potentially trying out mouth tape, we recommend doing so cautiously—and only if you feel like you’re an ideal candidate. Keep scrolling for a few shopper-loved options below that are gentle, safe, and designed for facial use.