Everyone uses both the nose and the mouth to breathe, but some people use one part more than the other. Those who breathe through their mouths a lot may be teasingly called “mouth breathers,” but there is a serious implication behind this behavior. In fact, consistent mouth breathing could be a symptom of an underlying oral health condition that should be looked at right away. Let’s look at some facts about mouth breathing.
Facts About Mouth Breathing
Today, our experts from Smile Specialist CA in Tarzana will discuss the most critical facts about mouth breathing that patients need to know. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described in this article, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly experts ASAP for a personal consultation.
1. Young Mouth Breathers Are More At Risk
If a young child mostly breathes from the mouth, it’s important to keep an eye out for other medical symptoms as well. Children who breathe loudly from their mouths may be struggling with a developmental abnormality caused by such labored breaths. A child who grows up struggling to breathe will likely have worse posture, more respiratory issues, and a weakened immune system.
2. More Rapid Tooth Decay
Mouth breathing can affect the way you produce saliva. Pulling in so much air through the mouth – and then exhaling it – can cause the mouth to dry up fast, making it more difficult for your body to produce saliva. Saliva is necessary because it cleanses dirt and harmful bacteria from the mouth. Without it, bacteria sits on the teeth and leads to decay.
Not to mention, mouth breathing and tooth decay can change pH levels in your mouth, furthering the spread of harmful substances. Changing acidity levels on your teeth makes your mouth a breeding ground for the worst kinds of decay.
3. Increased Likelihood for Gum Disease
Mouth breathing is also a dangerous habit as it can cause a buildup of bacteria on the gums. Every Smile Specialist CA patient knows about the importance of brushing their teeth every day, but it’s just as important to brush the gums. Gums are not only made to protect the sensitive parts of your teeth, but they also serve as the direct pathway to the rest of the body as they carry blood throughout. Gum infections or disease can do a lot of harm all around the body.
How Can I Tell If I’m A Mouth Breather?
If you aren’t sure whether or not you are prone to breathing out or your mouth, there are some other signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for. It is quite easy to spot this condition. Most patients who breathe out of their mouths also experience the following:
- Constant bad breath (halitosis)
- Loud snoring at night
- Dry or chapped lips
- Increased cavities and tooth decay
- Crowded teeth
- Higher number of colds, sores, and sinus infections than the average person
It’s important to seek help from your local dental experts if you think you may display one or more of the above symptoms. There are several different treatment options available for mouth breathing. And they all aim to protect your health while helping you reduce bad habits.
Start Breathing the Right Way Today!
Are you uncomfortable or self-conscious about how you breathe through your mouth? Are you always told that you snore or breathe loudly? Do you wake up with a dry mouth? All of these reasons and more may contribute to the likelihood that you have an undiagnosed dental health issue going on.
Get in touch with our experts here at Smile Specialists CA to learn about the special treatments offered by airway orthodontics in Tarzana. You can learn how to love and breathe in healthier ways, giving yourself a better chance at a fulfilling future. Call us today to schedule an appointment ASAP!