For many people, using a straw has become second nature—whether it's for convenience, to avoid staining teeth with coffee or tea, or to protect against the enamel erosion that can result from acidic drinks. It’s often viewed as a cleaner, more hygienic, and even safer way to consume beverages. However, dental professionals are beginning to raise concerns about the lesser-known effects of regular straw use, especially in terms of oral and facial muscle function. One such expert, dentist Dr. Seb Lomas, has recently drawn attention to the subtle yet significant impact straws can have on how we swallow.

In a recent Instagram post, Dr. Seb highlighted an important but often overlooked aspect of oral health: the way our daily habits influence the development and function of the muscles involved in breathing, speaking, and swallowing. According to him, frequent straw use could interfere with the body’s natural swallowing pattern, potentially disrupting what are known as “myofunctional routines.” These routines refer to the coordinated muscle movements that allow us to perform essential functions such as swallowing, chewing, and even maintaining proper tongue posture.

Dr. Seb posed a thought-provoking question to his followers: “Did you know that using straws too often can actually be an issue for your myofunctional routines?” He explained that consistently relying on a straw encourages an unnatural sucking motion, which may seem harmless but can gradually retrain the muscles in the mouth and throat. Over time, this could lead to altered swallowing patterns, particularly in children and adolescents whose facial muscles are still developing. Even in adults, long-term changes in swallowing mechanics can contribute to issues such as jaw tension, mouth breathing, and even speech difficulties.

As Dr. Seb emphasizes, the goal isn’t to completely avoid straws, but rather to become more mindful about how and when we use them. He recommends using straws only when necessary—such as during recovery from dental procedures or when avoiding contact with sensitive teeth—and paying attention to the way we sip. Sipping from a straw placed too far back in the mouth, for instance, can bypass the lips and tongue, reducing the engagement of the muscles responsible for natural oral function. Instead, he suggests placing the straw closer to the front of the mouth and sipping gently, allowing the muscles to work in a way that aligns more closely with healthy swallowing patterns. In short, while straws can certainly be useful and even necessary in some situations, Dr. Seb’s insights encourage us to reconsider their everyday use. By being more aware of how this simple tool affects the way we drink and swallow, we can make small changes that support better long-term oral health and functional wellness