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Chewing with your mouth closed is good etiquette as you grow up. Sometimes, it is hard to remember to chew with your mouth closed. You might also need some practice.

  1. Close your mouth and chew with your back teeth. Use one or two sticks of gum for this practice. Remember to breathe through your nose, not through your mouth. [1]
  2. Put a little bit of the food into your mouth. Now close your mouth, chewing with only your back teeth. Chew slowly; this helps you keep your mouth closed.
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  3. This is no reason to open your mouth. Still chew with it closed.
  4. Follow the same principle: small portions at first, then slowly work your way up. Chew slowly.
  5. While these may make noise, it is no excuse to open your mouth while chewing.
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  • Question
    I started to practice eating with my mouth closed, but I have breathing issues after eating. How do I overcome this?
    Community Answer
    When your nose is plugged or you just can't breathe, take smaller bites, or pause your chewing and take a breath through a slightly opened mouth. If "after eating" refers to after you swallow, you may have other problems.
  • Question
    How do I chew with my mouth closed if I can't close my mouth due to injuries?
    Community Answer
    If you can't close your mouth, you can't chew with your mouth closed. Just apologize ahead of time to the people you're eating with, I'm sure they'll understand.
  • Question
    My mom asks me to stop chewing with my mouth open and I just can't seem to stop. How do I chew with my mouth closed?
    Community Answer
    If you can't stop, try to chew with your mouth slightly open. The food won't be as visible, and it will be more helpful.
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      Tips

      • If you are having trouble believing that you look awful chewing with your mouth open, set up a video camera or mirror and check yourself out.
      • If you find your self eating alone, print this out and read it prior to eating your meals.
      • Reward yourself for every day you chew with your mouth closed. It will help and encourage you to continue improving.
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      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 191,650 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Larry Pajaro

        Nov 12, 2017

        "I just forget to close my mouth while chewing. Plus don't forget about talking with mouth full of food."
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