Understanding Mouth Breathing
As Orofacial Myofunctional Therapists serving families throughout Central Pennsylvania, one of the most common concerns we hear from parents is about their children breathing through their mouths instead of their noses.
Think of your child’s nose as nature’s air filter and humidifier – when they bypass it by mouth breathing, they’re missing out on these important functions. Just as a home air filter protects your living space from dust and pollutants, nasal breathing filters, warms, and moistens the air before it reaches your child’s lungs.
When children consistently breathe through their mouths, they not only miss out on this natural filtration system but may also develop patterns that can affect their facial development, sleep quality, and overall health.
At Valley OMT in Camp Hill, we understand parents’ concerns about this habit and its potential long-term effects. Let’s explore why this happens and how Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy can help address these breathing patterns for better health and development.
Mouth Breathing 101
Your child’s body is designed to breathe through the nose for good reasons. Nasal breathing filters, warms, and humidifies the air before it reaches the lungs. When a child becomes a habitual mouth breather, it’s often a sign of an underlying Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder that needs attention.
Common Causes of Mouth Breathing
Physical Obstacles
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- Chronic allergies or sinus issues
- Deviated septum
- Restricted nasal airways
- Tongue-tie or other oral restrictions
- Poor upper and lower jaw development
Behavioral Factors
- Poor oral rest posture
- Thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use
- Learned breathing patterns
- Sleep-disordered breathing
Why Mouth Breathing Matters: The Long-Term Effects
When left untreated, mouth breathing can lead to several developmental issues:
Physical Development
- Changes in facial growth and development
- Altered jaw position
- Dental problems and misalignment
- Forward head posture
Daily Function
- Poor sleep quality
- Decreased oxygen levels
- Difficulty concentrating at school
- Increased risk of dental decay
- Speech challenges
- Decreased release of growth hormone while sleeping
How Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Can Help
As OMT specialists, we work with children to retrain their breathing patterns through specialized exercises and techniques. Think of it as teaching your child’s body a new, healthier habit. Myofunctional therapy helps by strengthening oral and facial muscles while establishing proper tongue positioning. We focus on teaching correct swallowing patterns and developing nasal breathing habits, ultimately improving overall oral function.
Treatment Approach at Valley OMT
Our approach to treating mouth breathing combines several key elements. We begin with a comprehensive evaluation of oral and facial structures, muscles, and chewing, swallowing, and drinking function. From there, we develop customized and comprehensive exercise programs tailored to each patient’s needs. We actively collaborate with other healthcare providers when needed, while providing ongoing parent education and support. Throughout the treatment process, we maintain regular progress monitoring, offering encouragement and accountability for best results.
Take Action for Your Child’s Health
If you’ve noticed your child regularly breathing through their mouth, especially during rest or sleep, it’s important to address this issue early. Through proper evaluation and treatment with Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, we can help your child develop healthy breathing patterns that will benefit them for life.
Ready to help your child breathe better? Contact Valley OMT today to schedule a consultation. Together, we’ll create a path toward proper breathing and optimal oral development for your child.