Chronic Mouth Breathing
Mouth Breathing: What You Need to Know
Most of us don’t think much about how we breathe. Ideally, breathing happens through the nose, which warms, moistens, and filters the air before it enters the lungs. For some people, however, breathing happens mainly through the mouth.
This can become a constant habit.
Mouth breathing can develop for a variety of reasons. Allergies, asthma, frequent colds, stress, anxiety and sinus problems are common triggers. In children, habits like thumb-sucking or conditions such as a tongue tie can contribute.
The signs of mouth breathing are often noticeable. People may develop an open-mouthed appearance or breathe noisily when at rest or while eating. A dry mouth can lead to bad breath and an increased risk of dental issues. Over time, the airways and voice may become irritated, leading to hoarseness. In children, chronic mouth breathing can even affect speech patterns, sometimes causing a lisp, and may influence the development of the jaw and face, leading to changes in bite and dental alignment.
If left untreated, mouth breathing can create a range of complications. It is linked to a higher risk of tooth decay, gum disease, jaw joint problems, and speech or swallowing difficulties. Many people also notice that it worsens snoring and sleep apnoea, making restful sleep harder to achieve. For those with asthma, mouth breathing can irritate the airways further and increase symptoms.
Breathing re-training can play an important role. Just as muscles in the body can be strengthened through exercise, the muscles of the mouth, tongue, and diaphragm can be trained to encourage healthy nasal breathing. The Buteyko Method supports this process, and should always be learned under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.
The outlook for mouth breathing is positive, as it is a highly treatable condition. Early intervention can prevent long-term complications, restore healthy nasal breathing, and support better sleep, dental health, and overall wellbeing.
If your child is using prescribed medication, dental devices, or sleep aids, please check with your doctor or specialist before making any changes.