Breathing Through the Mouth has Negative Health Implications

When spring comes pollen and other materials in the air can wreak harm on those who have seasonal allergies which causes a habit called “mouth breathing.”  Unfortunately for those who suffer, the physical, medical and social problems associated with mouth breathing are not recognized by most health care professionals,. This observation was recently reported in the Jan./Feb. 2010 General Dentistry issue. Children whose mouth breathing goes untreated over time may suffer from abnormal facial and dental development, such as long, narrow faces and mouths, gingivitis, gummy smiles, and even crooked teeth. Mouth breathing also leads to poor sleeping habits which can stunt growth and cause children to perform less in school.  Mouth breathing can also cause poor oxygen concentration in the bloodstream, leading to high blood pressure, sleep apnea,  heart problems,  and even other medical problems. It is possible for … Read more