Mouth Breathing-Can it Cause Orthodontic Problems?

Does your child have a habit of primarily breathing through their nose?  What could be the root cause and can this habit cause orthodontic problems for children?  Here’s what Masri Orthodontics, your orthodontist in Plymouth, has to say.

Mouth breathing at a young age, prevents ventilation in the nasal cavity which contributes to an underdeveloped, narrow maxilla (upper arch) and low tongue posture alters the position of the mandible (lower arch) influencing growth to produce a “long face” effect.  Functionally, this improper development of the upper and lower jaw bones can create trouble with speech and swallowing, while also altering the shape of the face.

Mouth breathing and its impacts can be reversed when addressed by an orthodontist in Canton.  The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that all children age 7 receive their initial orthodontic screening.  If mouth breathing is diagnosed, orthodontics can help improve the airway and lead to improvements in breathing.  Early treatment that aims to gradually expand the jaw, also widens the sinuses, and allows for an easier transition to nose breathing. 

If your child struggles with mouth breathing, it is not too late to correct this habit.  Feel free to contact us, Masri Orthodontics, your orthodontist in Livonia,  and schedule an appointment so that we can assist,