Mouth Breathing and Related Oral Habits in Children

Mouth breathing is the most common oral habit among children, often leading to various oral
health issues. It can be caused by factors such as enlarged adenoids or tonsils, allergies, or
structural abnormalities in the nose or mouth.

Related Oral Habit

Tongue Thrusting

Pushing the tongue against the front teeth

Lip Incompetence:

Inability to keep the lips closed at rest.

Open-Mouth Posture

Keeping the mouth open most of the time

Consequences of Mouth Breathing and Related Habits

Dental Problems:

Malocclusion (misalignment of teeth)
Crowding of teeth
Open bite
Facial asymmetry

Sleep Apnea:

Difficulty breathing while sleeping, leading to snoring,
daytime fatigue, and other problems

Dry Mouth:

Can contribute to cavities and gum disease

Facial Growth:

May affect the growth and development of the face and
jaws.

Attention deficit issues.

Treatment

Treatment for mouth breathing and other oral diseases as to be initiated as early as possible. Most common treatment appliances are Myofunctional appliances

Myofunctional appliances

are custom-made devices designed to correct abnormal oral
habits and improve the function of the tongue, lips, and jaw muscles.

How Myofunctional Appliances Work

Reshaping the Oral Cavity
Correcting Habits: These appliances can help to break bad habits like tongue thrusting and mouth breathing.

Benefits of Myofunctional Appliances
Non-Invasive: Myofunctional appliances are typically less invasive than surgical or orthodontic treatments.
Effective
Comfortable