Mouth breathing is perfectly natural to breathe through your mouth at certain times, such as when lifting a heavy load or exercising. Breathing through the mouth most of the time, however, can cause health problems. These problems can be especially severe for children because it can affect the long-term development of the face.

Most of us bring air into our body through our nose. The nose is designed to act as a natural humidifier and filtering system for the air we breathe. When we can’t get enough air through our nose, however, the mouth takes over. Breathing through the mouth most of the time was not nature’s intent. When this happens, problems can occur.

Why Would Someone Mouth Breathe?
Mouth breathing is a postural habit that can develop for numerous reasons. Below are the most common:
-- Acute Sinusitis
-- Thumb or finger sucking habit
-- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
-- Chronic nasal congestion
-- Respiratory infection

Treatment of Mouth Breathing
Unfortunately, for the people who struggle with mouth breathing, it is not that easy. This is because all of the muscles of the face and mouth have been programmed to help them breathe in a dysfunctional manner. Their body does not know how to breathe normally.

In order to stop mouth breathing, the muscles must be "re-trained" to function in new ways.

A myofunctional therapist such as myself can be an instrumental figure in helping you learn to breathe in a healthy way. Myofunctional therapists are skilled at helping children and adults gain control over muscle patterning habits, including those involved in mouth breathing.

A consultation with a myofunctional therapist can be very valuable. If the muscles are not re-trained, problems with general health, speech, orthodontic treatment, dental health, swallowing and breathing may persist throughout life. Myofunctional therapy is needed to make the muscular changes associated with mouth breathing.