Should I Worry That My Child Is A Mouth Breather?

Mouth breathing often seems harmless. However, your nose plays a vital role in the breathing process. If your child breathes through their mouth even if they don’t have a cold, it’s time to talk to Dr. Daniel Park.

Dr. Park offers pediatric dentistry at Beaumont Cherry Valley Dental. In this blog, learn more about mouth breathing in children and how he can help at his practice in Beaumont, California.

Why nose breathing matters

To start, the nose is your first line of defense against particles and pathogens. That’s because its hairs act as a mini air filter each time you inhale.

On top of that, the nose warms and humidifies the air, which benefits good respiratory health. 

Finally, the nose produces nitric oxide. This acts as a chemical messenger in the body that stimulates the immune and cardiovascular systems.

While mouth breathing can affect people of all ages, up to 25% of children experience the condition.

Causes of mouth breathing

Mouth breathing can occur for several reasons, such as:

• Nasal blockages or congestion from allergies, colds, or flu
• Enlarged adenoids or tonsils
• A deviated septum or abnormal cartilage in the nose

Unfortunately, this increases their chances of numerous issues without intervention. And they only increase over time.

The problems with mouth breathing

Mouth breathing can trigger several issues, especially involving the teeth, including:

• Bad breath
• Dry mouth
• Drooling
• Teeth grinding
• Teeth erosion, cavities, and gum disease
• Impacted teeth
• Myofascial pain
• Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)
• Malocclusion (poorly aligned upper and lower teeth)

Mouth breathing can also impact facial development in children, causing a long, narrow face and receding jaw or chin.

It’s also linked to sleep apnea, slower growth, learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and a weakened immune system.

Treating mouth breathing

If your child seems to breathe through their mouth a lot, Dr. Park can help. 

First, Dr. Park discusses your concerns. Then, he performs an examination to check for signs of a problem. Dr. Park and his team specialize in pediatric care and implement strategies to make dental visits comfortable and fun for kids of all ages.

Based on his assessment, Dr. Park can offer personalized guidance on moving forward. 

Treatments for mouth breathing vary, depending on the cause. For instance, if a child has allergies or infections, a specialist can provide management strategies to address nasal blockages. 

When a structural issue affects breathing, like a deviated septum or enlarged adenoids, surgery often provides the best solution.

Is your child a mouth breather? Schedule a consultation at Beaumont Cherry Valley Dental to avoid oral complications by calling or booking online today.