Mouth breathing is when people rely on taking in air through their mouths and not their noses. Mouth breathing may be why some people wake up with dry mouths and drool on their pillows.
But mouth breathing causes more problems than soggy pillows and dry mouths. Mouth breathing can cause sleep disorders that affect daily life. It can also change the structure of people’s faces. Most people develop mouth breathing as very young children, potentially setting the stage for long-term problems.
What’s the difference between breathing through my nose or my mouth?
There are several differences between breathing through your mouth instead of through your nose:
- When you breathe through your nose, tiny hairs called cilia filter out debris like allergens, pollution and even small insects. Your mouth doesn’t offer that protection.
- Your lungs and throat function better with moist air. Your nose has bony structures called turbinates that handle that task. Air you take in through your mouth is drier.
- Likewise, your throat and lungs thrive on warm air. When you breathe in through your nose, the air you take in gradually warms up until it’s closer to body temperature, making it easy for your tissues to absorb.
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Who’s affected by mouth breathing?
Mouth breathing affects adults and children. Healthcare providers estimate between 10% and 25% of children have mouth breathing.
How does mouth breathing affect people?
People who breathe through their mouth and not their nose are more likely to develop sleep disorders, including sleep apnea. Children who have mouth breathing are more likely to have dental problems like malocclusion and facial differences. They can also develop obstructive sleep apnea that healthcare providers link to learning difficulties and behavioral problems.
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Is it bad to be a mouth breather?
Mouth breathing is something you do. It’s not who you are. It’s not a question of being good or bad. It’s about which way of breathing is most helpful and healthful. Breathing through your nose instead of your mouth is better on both counts.
