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The lungs are located inside a person's chest, or thoracic cavity, on either side of the heart. A massive muscle located below the lungs, the diaphragm powers the process of breathing, also known as respiration. The muscle contracts in a rhythmic pattern to help bring air into the lungs from the mouth or nose.
To inhale, the diaphragm relaxes and flattens. This enlarges the thoracic cavity to reduce pressure within the lungs. This pressure reduction allows air to flow into the lungs during inhalation or inspiration.
When the lungs exhale, the diaphragm also relaxes. It decreases the size of the thoracic cavity and increases pressure in the lungs. Both of these actions together push air out of the lungs.
The circulatory system consists of the body's heart and blood vessels. The circulatory system transports oxygen and other nutrients from the lungs to other body parts.
Some of the more frequent causes of this can include:
Individuals without such diseases may also experience shortness of breath due to inappropriate breathing habits.
Breathing through the nose is essential because it humidifies and warms the air before it reaches the lungs. The nose filters the incoming air, removing irritants. Proper breathing should also come from the diaphragm and stomach, not the chest.
An example of improper breathing is breathing through the mouth. Mouth breathing is necessary when performing strenuous exercise or when suffering from nasal congestion. But otherwise, nose breathing is the best.
Following an active and healthy lifestyle is a great way to promote lung health. Stress-reducing practices, such as meditation, can also help establish good breathing habits.
Research suggests that children who often breathe through their mouths are more likely to develop speech disorders. Doctors may refer to speech therapy to treat these conditions. It can also turn out to be useful in improving breathing techniques.
Nasal breathing benefits are far greater than those of mouth breathing. For example, the nose humidifies, heats, and filters air as it passes through the nasal cavity.
This filtering process catches some of the particles within the nose, which can block microbes or allergens from entering the body. This can subsequently decrease the risk of developing illnesses such as colds, allergic reactions, or the flu. Because the nose retains some of the moisture from the air, breathing through the nose can also prevent nasal dryness.
On the other hand, chronic mouth breathing is detrimental to one's health. Some of the following can be included:
Mouth breathing also doesn't humidify or filter the air like nose breathing. Therefore, mouth breathing may increase the risk of developing airborne infections. Cold and unfiltered air delivered to the lungs may also exacerbate the symptoms of respiratory diseases such as asthma.
In 2017, scientists compared mouth breathing and nose breathing while exercising. Scientists found that nose breathing during aerobic exercise decreased the risk of hyperventilating.
They also stated that nasal breathing releases nitric oxide. This can improve exercise performance, although further studies are needed to investigate this further.
Research also indicates that breathing through the nose can affect a person's ability to think. Another research study found enhancements in brain function when participants were nose breathing. There was also a strengthening of connections among different brain areas while engaging in this form of breathing.
Scientists did not observe these cognitive benefits during mouth breathing. They concluded that this type of breathing might negatively impact a person's cognitive abilities.
Mouth breathing in children also restricts healthy growth and development. Mouth breathing in infants and young children can reduce the levels of growth hormones, which can reduce or slow the child's growth and development.
Children who breathe through their mouths can even experience structural changes in their jaw or mouth. The jaw bone may change its position in the long term in kids who mouth breathes. The angle of certain teeth in the mouth may also be affected due to mouth breathing in children.
These are the underlined and typical reasons for mouth breathing in children;
Treatment for mouth breathing may include:
Dr Rashida is the first American Board Certified Dental Sleep Apnea Specialist in the UAE. At Le Denté, we take a holistic, child-focused approach to identifying and correcting mouth breathing, ensuring your child can breathe, sleep, and grow to their full potential.
Below are some of the most common questions and answers about nose and mouth breathing.
Research has established that mouth breathing reduces the activity of the respiratory muscles. It also reduces the expansion of the diaphragm muscle, thereby lowering efficiency when breathing through the mouth.
A person's respiratory muscles are more involved during inhalation when they breathe through their nose; thus, the lungs can take in oxygen more effectively. This increases the amount of oxygen a person’s body takes in; thus, nose breathing is a more effective option.
Stopping mouth breathing often starts with identifying the root cause; whether it’s nasal blockage, tongue posture issues, or oral habits. Child mouth breathing treatment may include myofunctional therapy, tongue-tie release, habit-breaking appliances, or jaw expanders to help open the airway and promote proper nasal breathing. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term developmental issues.
A person may find that they can create more effective breathing patterns by incorporating relaxation techniques and making lifestyle adjustments.
Any person who wants to change their breathing habits should visit a doctor. The treatment will depend on any underlying condition the patient may have.
The nose humidifies and filters the air before it enters the body. This reduces the possibility of infection and optimizes airflow into the lungs. Nasal breathing increases the amount of oxygen that passes through the blood.
Nose breathing provides more oxygen than mouth breathing and can also help protect against infections. Mouth breathing may be necessary when one is sick with a cold, but otherwise, it is less healthy than nose breathing. Mouth breathing also increases the risk of developing infections or worsening the symptoms of diseases such as asthma. Mouth breathing during childhood also affects the face and jaw structure.
Mouth breathing in children impacts a child's health in more ways than most parents realize. It would make a significant difference if it were recognized and treated early, particularly in facial development, sleep patterns, and overall health. Nose breathing is better for everyone, irrespective of age.
Getting help early can prevent long-term breathing problems in kids. For expert advice, do not hesitate to call a trusted professional at Le Denté.
Le Denté offers comprehensive dental evaluations and personalized care for children affected by mouth breathing and jaw development issues. With a strong focus on early diagnosis, our clinic helps parents understand how breathing habits can impact oral health and facial growth. Child mouth breathing treatment plans are designed to improve function, support natural development, and enhance long-term comfort and well-being.
