Let’s explore why mouth breathing happens, how it affects teeth, and what parents can do.

What Is Mouth Breathing?

Mouth breathing is when a child breathes mostly through their mouth instead of their nose, during the day, at night, or both.This can happen because of:

• allergies

• enlarged adenoids or tonsils

• chronic congestion

• narrow nasal passages

• habits developed during early childhood

While occasional mouth breathing is normal—like during a cold—chronic mouth breathing can lead to dental problems.

1. Mouth Breathing Can Cause Dry Mouth (and More Cavities!)

When kids breathe through their mouth, the saliva dries out.And saliva is super important because it:

• washes away bacteria

• protects tooth enamel

• helps prevent cavities

Less saliva = more plaque, more bacteria, and a higher chance of cavities.

Kids dentistry experts in Sedona, AZ see this often, especially in children with allergies or chronic congestion.

2. It Can Lead to Mouth Breathing Face (Long Face Syndrome)

Children who mouth breathe for a long time may develop facial changes, such as:

• long, narrow face

• smaller jaw

• open mouth posture

• dark circles under the eyes

• high-arched palate

This happens because kids’ bones are still growing, and breathing patterns shape them. Early dental evaluation can help guide healthy facial development.

3. Mouth Breathing Can Affect Teeth Alignment

Chronic mouth breathing can cause:

• crowded teeth

• open bite

• crossbite

• overbite

• misalignment

Why?When a child breathes through the mouth, the tongue stays low instead of resting against the roof of the mouth—where it naturally helps expand the palate.A low tongue = a narrow palate = less room for teeth to grow correctly.

This is one of the reasons children may later need braces.

4. It Can Make Sleep Worse (Which Also Affects Oral Health!)

Kids who mouth breathe often:

• snore

• sleep poorly

• wake frequently

• feel tired during the day

• grind their teeth

Teeth grinding can wear down enamel and cause jaw discomfort.Good sleep matters for strong teeth and a healthy body.

5. Mouth Breathing Causes Gum Problems

Children who breathe through their mouth may have:

• red gums

• swollen gums

• irritated gum tissue

• bad breath

Dry gums are more likely to get inflamed and infected—another reason early prevention is key.

How Parents in Sedona, AZ Can Help

If you’ve noticed your child breathing through their mouth, here’s what you can do:

1. Schedule a kids dentistry exam

A pediatric dentist can spot early signs like:

• narrow palate

• dental crowding

• dry mouth

• gum irritation

• tongue posture issues

2. Check for allergies

Sedona’s seasonal allergies can make nose breathing harder.

3. Visit an ENT (ear, nose, and throat doctor)

They can evaluate tonsils, adenoids, and nasal passages.

4. Encourage nose breathing during the day

Gentle reminders can help build healthy habits.

Early treatment can prevent bigger dental problems later.

Supporting Healthy Smiles in Sedona, AZ

At Sedona Molar Kids, we care about your child’s smile from every angle—including how they breathe! If you think your child may be mouth breathing or showing signs of dental changes, we’re here to help with gentle, expert kids dentistry tailored to Sedona families.

Healthy Breathing = Healthy Teeth

A simple change in breathing can make a huge difference in your child’s oral health. With early detection and the right support, your child can grow strong, healthy teeth—and breathe easier, too.