Breathing is something most of us do without thinking—but the way you breathe can significantly impact both your oral health and your overall wellness. At The Dentist Lounge in Santa Monica, we specialize in airway-focused care, which means we assess and treat the hidden impacts of poor breathing patterns every day.
The Difference Between Nasal and Mouth Breathing
Nasal breathing is the body’s natural and preferred method. It filters, warms, and humidifies the air, improving oxygen uptake and supporting healthy jaw and facial development. Mouth breathing, on the other hand, bypasses these functions and can lead to a variety of oral and systemic issues.
Why Mouth Breathing Is a Problem
Chronic mouth breathing can cause:
- Dry mouth and increased risk of tooth decay
- Gum inflammation and periodontal disease
- Narrow jaws and dental crowding
- Facial underdevelopment in children
- Poor posture, fatigue, and sleep-disordered breathing
Mouth breathing often goes unnoticed until symptoms like snoring, teeth grinding, or chronic congestion appear. That’s why we conduct airway screenings as part of our routine care.
Airway and Oral Health: What’s the Link?
A compromised airway affects oral health in more ways than one. It contributes to:
- Clenching and grinding (bruxism): as the body struggles for oxygen at night.
- Scalloped tongue: a common sign of restricted airway or poor tongue posture.
- TMJ disorders: from chronic compensation patterns.
How We Evaluate Breathing at The Dentist Lounge
Our Santa Monica team uses a combination of clinical exams, patient history, and digital imaging to evaluate how you breathe, especially during sleep. We look at:
- Tongue posture and function
- Palate shape and arch width
- Breathing patterns (mouth vs. nasal)
- Sleep quality and snoring
- Signs of fatigue or daytime drowsiness
Can Mouth Breathing Be Reversed?
Yes—and often with dramatic results. Treatment depends on the cause. For some, a deviated septum or allergies may be the issue. For others, it’s a habit rooted in muscle dysfunction.
Treatment Options We Offer
- Myofunctional therapy: Exercises to retrain oral muscles and encourage nasal breathing.
- Airway orthodontics: Expands the jaw to improve airflow.
- Tongue-tie release: If a restricted tongue is affecting posture or function.
- Referral to ENT: When structural nasal issues are involved.
How Breathing Impacts Children’s Growth
Children who mouth breathe may experience:
- Poor facial development
- Increased need for braces
- Learning and behavioral challenges
- Restless sleep and poor focus
Early intervention is key. At The Dentist Lounge, we offer airway assessments for kids as young as three years old.
FAQs
How can I tell if I or my child is mouth breathing? Watch for open-mouth posture at rest, snoring, or dry mouth upon waking.
Can airway treatment really improve sleep? Yes—restoring nasal breathing has been shown to improve oxygen levels, reduce nighttime awakenings, and boost daytime energy.
Is this covered by insurance? Many airway-related services (exams, imaging, orthodontics) are partially covered by PPO dental plans. We also offer flexible payment options.
Take the First Step Toward Better Breathing
Breathing affects everything—from your teeth to your brain. If you’ve been living with unexplained fatigue, jaw pain, or disrupted sleep, your airway may be the missing link.
Book your airway consultation now → https://www.flexbook.me/dentlounge/1
