“MOUTH-BREATHER” HAS made the rounds as an insult in recent years, but breathing primarily through the mouth instead of the nose can actually have some pretty negative effects on health, including oral health. Mouth-breathing should only be done as an emergency backup, not the main way to breathe.
The Nose Is a Built-In Air Filter
The nose has a built-in filtration system and triggers nitric oxide production, helping our lungs absorb oxygen better. We don’t get any of that from mouth breathing. Short-term effects of mouth breathing include dry mouth, reduced oxygen levels, and impaired speech. Dry mouth is particularly dangerous for dental health, because saliva is the teeth and gums’ first line of defense against bacteria and acid. We also need saliva to taste our food!
Mouth-Breathing Can Change the Shape of the Face
Children who grow up breathing mainly through their mouths can actually develop differently, their faces becoming flatter, with weaker chins and droopy eyelids as they grow up. They are more likely to have complex orthodontic problems, with narrow arches and lots of crowding. Other long-term effects for habitual mouth-breathers include an increased likelihood of sleep apnea, which in turn comes with low energy, poor concentration, and a weaker immune system.
Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
Related posts
Discover the art of enhancing your smile.
The Shocking Truth About Oral Hygiene: Are You Brushing Your Teeth Wrong?
Brushing your teeth is something you’ve likely been doing since childhood, but are you sure you’re doing it the right way? Many people don’t realize that improper brushing techniques can lead to dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and even enamel erosion. As a dentist specializing in cosmetic and general dentistry, I’ve seen how the right brushing habits can significantly improve oral hygiene and overall health.
Preventing Tooth Decay
Tooth decay remains the most important issue in dental health, and it affects people of all ages.
When It's Better Not To Brush
Though thin and partially translucent, tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body and has the important job of preserving teeth from constant use...