Nasal obstruction-induced breathing can have a significant impact on orthodontic development, especially in young patients whose facial and jaw structures are still developing. When a person relies on oral respiration, the lingual muscle does not rest in its natural position against the roof of the mouth. This reduced tongue-to-palate contact can lead to a narrow upper jaw and insufficient space for the teeth to erupt properly. Over time, this may result in misaligned dentition.
In addition, individuals with chronic mouth breathing often develop what is known as an anterior open bite, where the upper and lower front teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed. This happens because the lingual posture tends to rest between the teeth instead of on the palate, exerting persistent thrust that pushes the teeth apart. The mandible may also grow downward and backward instead of forward, contributing to a weak jawline and an abnormal craniofacial morphology.
Chronic mouth breathing is often linked to airway blockage caused by rhinitis, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, or a anatomical nasal obstruction. These contributing factors need to be addressed to prevent ongoing dental problems. Early intervention by a dentist can help guide proper dental eruption before they become severe. In many cases, addressing the nasal blockage—such as performing adenotonsillectomy or managing allergies—can allow the jaw and teeth to develop more normally.
Braces or aligners only may not be enough if the dysfunctional pattern remains uncorrected. Without retraining respiratory habits, teeth can revert to prior misalignment even after braces are removed. Oral myofunctional training, which reeducates oral musculature, is often integrated into comprehensive care to support long-term results.
Caregivers should watch for signs of mouth breathing in children, 墨田区 前歯矯正 such as nocturnal snorting, chapped mouth, chronic pharyngitis, or a perpetually parted lips. Addressing the issue early can prevent not only orthodontic complications but also boost immune function and sleep efficiency. Nasal respiration is evolutionarily designed and promotes healthy craniofacial development, so promoting nasal breathing is one of the critical interventions in ensuring long-term orthodontic stability.
