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Mouth breathing in children is more than just a habit; it’s a sign of underlying issues that can impact facial development, sleep quality, and overall health. At the TMJ Sleep and Breathe Center, Dr. Gary Adams specializes in identifying and treating the root causes of mouth breathing through a comprehensive, non-invasive approach. Most of the kids we see in our practice have crowded teeth, mouth breathing, and/or child sleep apnea.
Understanding Mouth Breathing in Children
Mouth breathing often results from a combination of anatomical, environmental, and habitual factors:
- Nasal Obstruction: Enlarged adenoids or tonsils, allergies, or chronic congestion can block nasal passages.
- Underdeveloped Jaw and Palate: A narrow upper jaw or high-arched palate can restrict nasal airflow.
- Tongue-Tie (Ankyloglossia): A restricted tongue can prevent proper resting posture against the palate. Anterior tongue ties are usually easy to see, but posterior or mid tongue tie s can be difficult to diagnose. Tongue ties keep tongues tied down to the bottom of the mouth and prevent proper palatal tongue position.
- Habitual Behavior: Temporary mouth breathing during illness can become a long-term habit.
Believe it or not all these things are linked. We can correct all mouth breathing factors once and for all with airway orthodontics and myofunctional therapy. The treatments work by naturally and gently creating more space in the mouth, jaws, teeth spaces and the upper airway. The treatments allow for proper air to flow through the nose, and prevent the need for mouth opening and breathing. The only time the mouth should open is during talking or eating.
The Negative Consequences of Mouth Breathing
Chronic mouth breathing can lead to:
- Facial and Dental Development Issues: Long, narrow faces, recessed chins, crowded teeth, and high-arched palates.
- Sleep and Oxygenation Problems: Shallow breathing, increased risk of pediatric sleep apnea, and reduced sleep quality.
- Behavioral and Cognitive Effects: Poor sleep can mimic ADHD symptoms and affect mood and academic performance.
- Health Concerns: Dry mouth leading to cavities, enlarged tonsils and adenoids, and chronic nasal congestion.
Identifying Mouth Breathing in Your Child
Signs to watch for include:
- Sleeping with an open mouth
- Snoring or noisy breathing at night
- Teeth Clenching during sleep
- Restless sleep
- Picky eaters
- Poor facial profile
- Dry lips or frequent thirst
- Crowded teeth or elongated facial appearance
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Forward head posture
- Daytime tiredness or hyperactivity
- Frequent colds or allergies
- Poor posture
Our Comprehensive Treatment Protocol
At the TMJ Sleep and Breathe Center, we follow a holistic, step-by-step approach to stop kids from mouth breathing:
1. Comprehensive Evaluation
We begin with a thorough assessment, including CBCT scans, to evaluate jaw size, nasal passages, and tongue posture.
2. Addressing Physical Obstructions
If nasal obstructions are present, we collaborate with ENT specialists to evaluate and address these issues.
3. Palatal Expansion
We utilize gentle, slow palatal expansion techniques to widen the upper jaw, creating more space for the tongue and improving nasal airflow.
4. Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy retrains oral muscles to promote proper tongue posture, nasal breathing, and correct swallowing patterns.
5. Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie Release
Using the LightScalpel CO2 laser, we perform precise frenectomies or tongue tie release procedures to improve tongue mobility and function.
6. Reinforcing Healthy Habits
We provide guidance on maintaining nasal breathing, proper posture, and incorporating myofunctional exercises into daily routines.
Why Choose Dr. Gary Adams and the TMJ Sleep and Breathe Center?
Dr. Adams and his team are dedicated to treating the root causes of mouth breathing, not just the symptoms. Our holistic approach ensures that each child receives personalized care aimed at promoting long-term health and well-being.
Take the First Step Towards Better Breathing
If you’re concerned about your child’s mouth breathing, contact the TMJ Sleep and Breathe Center to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. Together, we can help your child achieve healthier breathing patterns and improved quality of life.