Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a common problem that affects the small joints in the jaw. One of the major causes of TMJ disorder is mouth breathing. When this happens, the body’s natural defense mechanisms are affected, and the TMJ can become overworked and painful. Mouth breathing can lead to a host a dental and health problems, including throat problems, and sleep apnea.
The Science Behind Mouth Breathing
In a healthy situation, when the body breathes air in through the nose, it undergoes a number of necessary bodily functions. The nose acts as a natural air filter, trapping dust and other irritants before they can enter the airways and trigger an allergic or asthmatic reaction. The air then flows down to the lungs, where the oxygen can be properly utilized. When mouth breathing occurs, this process is greatly impaired. The filtering function of the nose is bypassed, and the body does not regulate the airflow as well. For this reason, the body has to expend more energy to get the same amount of oxygen. The jaw naturally relaxes and hangs open as a result, and when this happens for prolonged periods of time, it can disrupt the functioning of the TMJ and lead to TMJ disorder.
Connection between TMJ and Mouth Breathing
Mouth breathing can also lead to a number of problems outside the mouth. For example, people who breathe primarily through their mouth tend to have a smaller jaw and teeth that are forced out of alignment. This can lead to a number of dental and health problems, such as chronic sinusitis and sleep apnea. Apart from the physical issues, many people who breathe primarily through their mouth have reported feeling a sense of dryness and/or lumpishness in the back of the throat. This sensation can make it difficult for people to eat or swallow.
What you can do to prevent TMJ
Preventing or reversing the effects of TMJ due to mouth breathing can often be done through a combination of old-school and modern treatments. Many dentists still prescribe the use of a Mondok, which is a simple piece of plastic that you use to help close your mouth during sleep. Modern dentists may also prescribe a mouthguard or other device to help align the teeth properly. While not as well-understood as the above treatments, there is now also some evidence that some complementary treatments such as acupuncture can help reduce the effects of TMJ in some people.
Mouth breathing and sleep apnea
An additional problem sometimes associated with mouth breathing is sleep apnea. This is because the airway can become blocked when sleeping, causing breathing to pause or become shallow. This can lead to a number of problems, including loud snoring, disturbed sleep and even heart problems.
Treatment for sleep apnea caused by mouth breathing
Treatment for sleep apnea is often done using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device. This device delivers a steady flow of air that helps to keep the airways open while sleeping. Oral appliances are also available which can help to keep the jaw or airways open.
Conclusion
Mouth breathing can lead to a number of oral and systemic problems, including TMJ and sleep apnea. Understand the problems that can be caused by mouth breathing and take the necessary steps to help prevent these problems. This can be especially important for children, as proper breathing through the nose is necessary for proper growth and development. Therefore, it may be a good idea to follow up with a dentist or other specialist if you suspect you or your child breathe primarily through the mouth.
