If a child’s mouth rests in an open position, this doesn’t always indicate mouth breathing. Sleeping with their mouth open is a good indication of mouth breathing, so if you think you’re child may be a mouth breather, you should get a professional diagnosis by a doctor or dentist.
Should a child sleep with their mouth open?
When the mouth is open, the tongue cannot rest in the correct place. Over time this can lead to incorrect development of the upper jaw, a recessed lower jaw, speech problems and misaligned teeth. When sleeping, the recessed jaw can also cut off the airway completely and contribute to sleep apnea in children.
Can sleeping with mouth open cause problems?
Sleeping with your mouth open can leave your mouth feeling dry and uncomfortable, and worse, it can put you at risk of tooth decay and other dental problems. If you think you may sleep with your mouth open, talk to your doctor or dentist.
What does it mean when a child sleeps with their mouth open?
If a child’s mouth rests in an open position, this doesn’t always indicate mouth breathing. Sleeping with their mouth open is a good indication of mouth breathing, so if you think you’re child may be a mouth breather, you should get a professional diagnosis by a doctor or dentist.
Will my child grow out of mouth breathing?
The answer is yes. Chronic mouth breathing is linked to slower growth, behavioral issues, and dental and facial abnormalities, making it a habit with serious health implications.
Is baby mouth breathing bad?
Mouth breathing can result in long-term health consequences if left untreated. In many cases, it’s a symptom that indicates airway restriction. Your baby will resort to mouth breathing as an adaptation to help them get enough oxygen.
How do I know if my child has sleep apnea?
What are the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea in a child?
- Loud snoring or noisy breathing (gasping or snorting) during sleep.
- Pauses in breathing, lasting usually a few seconds up to a minute.
- Mouth breathing.
- A nasal voice.
- Restlessness during sleep.
- Too much daytime sleepiness or irritability.
Can you reverse mouth breathing effects?
How can it be corrected? Eliminating contributing factors such as adenoids, nasal polyps, and allergies are key. Orthodontics may need to be addressed as well. Once these issues are addressed mouth Breathing can be reversed through a series of targeted exercises involving the tongue, and lips.