Can Mouth Breathing’s Facial Effects Be Reversed by Switching to Nose Breathing?

It is a common question among those who have struggled with mouth breathing for years: can the facial effects of Mouth Breathing be reversed if one starts nose breathing? The answer varies based on several factors, including the individual's age, the extent of the facial changes, and the presence of underlying oral health conditions.

Understanding Mouth Breathing and Its Impact

Mouth Breathing can cause a range of issues that may affect the face, jaw, and teeth. During mouth breathing, the tongue is not positioned correctly against the roof of the mouth, which can lead to a variety of complications. These can include a facial widening, a narrowed dental arch, and underdeveloped maxilla. The palate, or the roof of the mouth, can also be affected, resulting in a smaller oral cavity and maxillary sinuses.

Age and Potential Reversal

The extent to which facial changes can be reversed after starting Nose Breathing depends significantly on the age of the individual. Younger individuals, especially those under 20, have a higher potential for reversal due to the ongoing growth and development of the face and jaw. At age 14, which is the time you are referring to, some improvement might be observed, but whether it is significant enough depends on the degree of facial and jaw misalignment.

Facial Developments in the Teenage Years

Up to age 18, the jaws are still growing, making this a critical period for potential corrections. The major growth spurt is done by age 14, but residual growth still occurs. Therefore, while starting Nose Breathing at 14 can be beneficial, the extent of facial and jaw development will vary.

The Role of Orthodontic Intervention

Orthodontists can play a crucial role in addressing the effects of mouth breathing. They can provide valuable guidance and treatment to help realign the teeth and jaw, improving both the facial appearance and overall oral health. Orthodontic treatment, such as braces, can help address issues related to dental alignment and jaw development, which are often co-related with mouth breathing.

It is important to consult with an orthodontist to determine the best course of action. Some common treatments include braces that can be retractive (pushing back teeth) or expansive (spreading out the dental arches). The choice of treatment will depend on the specific needs of the individual.

Expanding the Palate

In some cases, expanding the palate can be a helpful strategy. This can be achieved through the use of specific orthodontic appliances designed to widen the palate, which can also improve nasal breathing. By expanding the palate, the pressure of the air flow through the nasal passages can help the maxillary sinuses grow and the tongue can maintain a better position against the roof of the mouth.

Positive Effects of Nasal Breathing

Nasal breathing has several positive effects that can contribute to better facial and oral health. First, it promotes proper tongue posture, which can help support the development of the jaw and palate. This can lead to a more aesthetically pleasing and functional facial structure. Additionally, the pressure of air flow through the nostrils can help the maxillary sinuses grow, and the constant tongue pressure against the palate can stimulate the growth and development of the maxilla.

Further Resources

For more detailed information on these topics, you can refer to the following resources:

The Jaw Epidemic: Recognition, Origins, Cures, and Prevention by Sandra Kahn, Paul Ehrlich, Marcus Feldman, Robert Sapolsky, and Simon Wong Why We Have So Many Problems with Our Teeth by Peter S. Ungar

These books provide comprehensive insights into the effects of mouth breathing and strategies for addressing its impact.