د. عدلي الغزاوي
عيادة طب الأسنان المتخصصة
عيادة طب الأسنان المتخصصة
Mouth Breathing in Children: Its Impact on Facial and Jaw Development
Nasal breathing is the natural and healthy pathway for delivering oxygen to the body. The nose filters, humidifies, and regulates the temperature of the air before it reaches the lungs. However, some children develop a habit of breathing through the mouth, either during the day or while sleeping. Although this may seem harmless to parents, it can significantly affect the child’s overall health as well as the growth of the face and jaws.
Why do some children breathe through the mouth?
Several factors can lead a child to rely on mouth breathing. The most common causes include nasal airway obstruction due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids, or chronic nasal allergies that block the nose. In other cases, the habit develops without a clear medical cause, simply because the child becomes accustomed to breathing with the mouth open.
Effects of mouth breathing on facial and jaw growth
When a child constantly breathes through the mouth, the position of the tongue changes. Instead of resting against the roof of the mouth, it drops lower, which gradually influences the growth of the facial bones and jaws.
Facial features: The face often becomes longer and narrower, a condition commonly referred to as the “mouth-breathing face.”
Jaws and teeth: The upper jaw may become constricted, leading to dental crowding or protrusion of the front teeth. The bite relationship between the upper and lower jaws can also be affected, increasing the likelihood of needing orthodontic treatment later in life.
Broader health impacts
Mouth breathing does not only influence facial growth, but it also has other health consequences:
Dry mouth and an increased risk of dental cavities.
Sleep problems such as snoring or obstructive sleep apnea.
Poor sleep quality, which can lead to fatigue and reduced concentration during the day.
In some cases, speech development and articulation may be affected.
Importance of early intervention
Early detection is key to preventing long-term complications. If parents notice that their child often sleeps with an open mouth or struggles with nasal breathing, they should consult a pediatrician or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to determine the cause. Orthodontists also play an important role in evaluating the impact of mouth breathing on jaw growth and may recommend early treatments such as palatal expansion or other appliances that promote better breathing.
Conclusion
Mouth breathing in children is not a trivial habit but rather a condition that can leave lasting effects on facial growth and oral health. With parental awareness and timely medical intervention, children can achieve healthy development and maintain a confident