French kissing the back of my teeth?

[YouMaySayImaDreamer]

So I'm trying to deal with exhaling through my mouth.

I've read on here about people who use tongue position to prevent this. I specifically tried to touch the roof of my mouth, but I find this causes chipmunking, and it's hard to imagine my tongue staying there as it's not really a restful position.

So now I'm jamming my tongue behind my teeth, wedging it between the gums kind of. Seems promising, but I was just hoping for some insight on technique.

Thanks,
YM

[JayC]

You need to describe your placement more specifically...

Also, when you say "jamming", if sounds like a tense position which will not endure once you fall asleep.

Is your jaw closed but relaxed?


You should not (as far as I can tell by what I do) be pushing on the back of your teeth.

Hmmmm, my jaw has been smaller then optimal all my life, and I have had to find a comfortable way to not push on my teeth (once I got braces) AND keep my mouth closed. I never really thought about the mechanics and placement before.....I'll see what I can come up with...

Hopefully someone else with great description skills comes along as well!!

J

[tattooyu]

I have a fairly small mouth and jaw. I place my tongue, flat and wide just behind my teeth. At first, your tongue may get tired, but after some practice, it will become "normal".

[LinkC]

Hopefully someone else with great description skills comes along as well!!

I'll give it a shot... (this is what I THINK is happening)

Slide the tip of your tongue up the back of your upper teeth (jaws open). Keep sliding until the tip is against the roof about halfway back. Now GENTLY close your jaw--being careful not to bite the sides of your tongue! Your tongue should be folded back on itself behind your teeth.

If placed properly you can open your lips (without moving your jaw) and no air will flow in or out. (Although you may "chipmonk" a little!)

It takes some getting used to. I'm not sure I could sleep in that position. But it DOES keep you from mouth-breathing.

And increases tongue-dexterity...if that's important to you (or anyone you know!)

[DreamDiver]

tatooyu, LinkC, JayC,

If I try to do what you suggest without a full-face or hybrid mask, as soon as I'm unconscious I get mouth leaks. My tongue won't stay flexed in one position against the roof of my mouth. Air will escape. Leakage will occur.

YouMaySayImaDreamer, if tongue gymnastics work for you, great. If they don't, look at getting a full-face mask and a PapCap. It really is a better way to stop mouth leakage when nasal masks won't work.