Mouth breathing is a habit that some kids take up—and may even continue into adulthood if parents and dentists don’t work together to fix it. The problem with mouth breathing is that it has been linked to a variety of health problems. Here’s why it’s such a serious issue and what can be done to stop it.

The Effects of Mouth Breathing

When you breathe through your mouth, the air you inhale dries up saliva. This fluid is a natural cleaning solution, washing away bits of food and balancing the pH levels of the mouth. Insufficient saliva flow can lead to greater numbers of bacteria, increasing your risk of developing decay and periodontal disease.

Mouth breathing also means your lungs absorb less oxygen. When you breathe through your nose, mucus in the nasal cavities produces nitric oxide gas, which enhances the lungs’ absorption abilities. The hairs in your nose also filter out harmful impurities, which can easily make their way inside during mouth breathing.

Studies have even shown that children who practice this behavior have an increased risk of developing facial deformities. Their faces may become long and narrow with time, and the lower jaw may protrude.

Strategies for Modifying Breathing

In some cases, mouth breathing may occur because of physical issues. For instance, enlarged tonsils and adenoids can obstruct the nasal passages. Usually, a simple surgery can address these issues.

If the mouth breathing is simply a habit, a dentist can provide useful tools. Tailor-made mouth guards can encourage you to keep your lips sealed while sleeping, for instance. Orthodontics may also be a viable solution.

Finally, it’s important to keep the nasal passages clean and clear to encourage nose breathing. Remove allergens from the home, sleep with your head elevated and use a nasal spray if necessary. Ask your dentist for recommendations.

Need help tackling mouth breathing? Trust Four Corners Dental Group. With two locations in Alaska, these professionals are known for their gentle and affordable dental care. Their range of general and cosmetic dentistry services includes everything from teeth cleanings to veneers. Get a full overview of their offerings online. For an appointment, call the dentists directly at (907) 258-3384 for Anchorage or (907) 376-2790 for Wasilla, AK.