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Mouth breathing isn’t just a minor habit—it can change the way a child’s face develops. Parents who notice their child regularly breathing through their mouth should take action early to prevent long-term issues.
Keep reading to learn about how mouth breathing can affect your child’s oral health and what you can do.
How Mouth Breathing Affects Facial Structure
When a child breathes through their mouth instead of their nose, it impacts the way their jaws and teeth grow. Over time, this can lead to:
- A long, narrow face with a receding chin.
- Crowded or misaligned teeth that require orthodontic treatment.
- A weakened jawline, making eating and speaking harder
Dental and Orthodontic Complications
Mouth breathing also increases the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and sleep-disordered breathing. Without enough saliva, teeth are more prone to plaque buildup, which can lead to:
- More cavities, even with proper brushing.
- Gum inflammation which can progress to periodontal disease.
- A higher chance of needing braces or other orthodontic treatment.
What Parents Can Do to Help
If your child frequently breathes through their mouth, here’s how you can help:
- Encourage nasal breathing exercises to strengthen airway muscles.
- Consult an orthodontist to check for jaw misalignment.
- Address any allergies or nasal congestion causing breathing difficulties.
Visit Georgian Mall Family Dental for Oral Healthcare in Barrie, ON
Early intervention is key! If you or your child struggles with mouth breathing, visit Georgian Mall Family Dental. We offer comprehensive dental care in Barrie to address the effects of mouth breathing. Additionally, we provide tips to help prevent mouth breathing, and can help address the issue with a custom dental mouthguard. Schedule a consultation today to ensure your child’s smile develops properly.
