Mouth breathing is a common problem that can have serious consequences for both oral and overall health. While mouth breathing may seem like a harmless habit, it can actually lead to a number of problems such as jaw underdevelopment, poor oral hygiene, and sleep disorders.
One of the main consequences of mouth breathing is jaw underdevelopment. When we breathe through our nose, it helps promote proper jaw development because it requires the muscles around the mouth and nose to work together. However, when we breathe through our mouth, these muscles do not get the same stimulation, leading to underdevelopment. This can result in a narrow and recessed jaw, which can cause problems with teeth alignment and appearance.
Mouth breathing can also lead to poor oral hygiene. When we breathe through our mouth, it can dry out the mouth and reduce saliva production. Saliva is important for maintaining a healthy mouth because it helps wash away bacteria and food particles. Without enough saliva, the mouth becomes more susceptible to dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Mouth breathing can also contribute to sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, which is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses, also known as apneas, can last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes and can occur up to hundreds of times a night. As a result, people with sleep apnea may wake up frequently throughout the night or may not get into deep, restful sleep. This can lead to daytime sleepiness, irritability, and an increased risk of various health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
So, how can a dentist help a patient who is mouth breathing? A dentist can perform an oral exam to assess the cause of the mouth breathing and determine the appropriate treatment. In some cases, the cause may be a structural problem such as a deviated septum, in which case the patient may need to see an ear, nose, and throat specialist. In other cases, the cause may be related to the teeth or jaw, in which case the dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment or jaw surgery.
In addition to these treatments, a dentist can also recommend lifestyle changes to help reduce mouth breathing. These may include practicing nasal breathing techniques, using a humidifier to keep the air moist, and avoiding allergens that may trigger mouth breathing.
In conclusion, mouth breathing is a common problem that can have serious consequences for oral and overall health. It can lead to jaw underdevelopment, poor oral hygiene, and sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. If you are a mouth breather, a dentist can help assess the cause of the problem and determine the appropriate treatment. In addition to any recommended treatments, practicing nasal breathing techniques and avoiding allergens can also help reduce mouth breathing. For more information on sleep apnea treatments, call our office today at 858-538-8300.
