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Mouth breathing is a common phenomenon, as we have all done it at one point or another. Breathing out of the mouth is often assumed to be associated with better airflow, but is this really the case? Is mouth breathing really bad? Are there any myths or facts associated with this idea that we should be aware of? This article will explore the question of whether indeed mouth breathing is bad, and debunk any myths and facts associated with this practice.

Understanding the Basics: Why Do People Mouth Breathe?

Understanding why people mouth breathe is a good starting point for this article. Mouth breathing frequently occurs in people who suffer from blocked nasal passages, not necessarily as a result of poor oral/nasal hygiene; in other words, mouth breathing can occur due to medical conditions such as having a deviated septum, asthma, allergies, and sinusitis. Deviated septum is a situation in which the septum inside the nose is off-centred, creating a blocked airway; this sometimes makes it difficult for people to breathe through their noses, often forcing them to breathe through their mouths.

Myths About Mouth Breathing

One of the most common myths about mouth breathing is that it is bad for your health. This is not necessarily true, as mentioned above, mouth breathing is frequently connected to medical conditions such as asthma and allergy. On the other hand, research suggests that nasal breathing is associated with better overall health than mouth breathing. Medical professionals claim that nasal breathing helps to reduce dental issues in both children and adults, making it a healthier option as opposed to mouth breathing. It is also worth noting that, sometimes, mouth breathing can occasionally lead to sleep disorders, including “obstructive sleep apnea.”

Facts About Mouth Breathing

There are various facts associated with mouth breathing of which people should be aware. Firstly, an uncomfortable dynamic mouth posture can be developed as a result of continually breathing from mouth. This posture, in turn, can lead to dental issues such as malocclusion, increased cavities, malodour and gingival inflammation. In addition, people who breathe from mouth likely have a weaker lip muscle tone compared to people who breathe from the nose. Moreover, research suggests a link between mouth breathing and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). According to a study published in the journal “Cranio,” children who suffer from ADHD was found to be three times more likely to breathe from mouth than children who do not have the disorder.

Understanding the Potential Health Complications of Mouth Breathing

Research has shown that mouth breathing might come with certain health issues, such as dryness of the airway, sore throat, and a greater risk of upper respiratory infections. Moreover, it is believed that mouth breathing can lead to an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system, making it more difficult for the body to maintain homeostasis. Finally, research suggests that mouth breathing might eventually result in an increased asthma exacerbation risk.

Conclusion

The answer to whether or not mouth breathing is bad is not an easy one. Clearly, mouth breathing is associated with some medical conditions that make it difficult for a person to breathe through their noses, pushing them to breathe through their mouths. Research suggests that there are positive and negative consequences of mouth breathing, and it is essential for individuals to take these into consideration and eliminate the root of the problem to allow for easier breathing through the nose. Finally, it is essential to consult with medical professionals to figure out the potential health risks and find the right treatment plan to address them accordingly.