Here’s how nasal breathing protects your smile 😁 (and how mouth breathing can wreck it) 😵👇 Mouth breathing, especially chronically or during sleep, can negatively impact dental health in several ways due to changes in oral environment and biomechanics. Here’s a concise explanation: 1. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Mouth breathing reduces saliva production by drying out the oral cavity. Saliva is crucial for neutralizing acids, washing away food particles, and preventing bacterial overgrowth. A dry mouth increases the risk of: - Tooth Decay: Less saliva allows bacteria to thrive, producing acids that erode enamel. - Gum Disease: Dryness irritates gums, making them more susceptible to inflammation (gingivitis) and periodontitis. 2. Altered Oral pH: Mouth breathing bypasses the nasal passages, which filter and humidify air. This leads to a more acidic oral environment, weakening enamel and promoting cavities. 3. Increased Plaque Buildup: Reduced saliva flow impairs the mouth’s natural cleaning process, allowing plaque to accumulate on teeth, further contributing to decay and gum issues. 4. Dental Misalignment (Malocclusion): Chronic mouth breathing, especially in children, can alter facial and jaw development. It may lead to: - Narrowed dental arches, crowding teeth. - An open bite or misaligned jaw, requiring orthodontic intervention. - Changes in tongue posture, which affects tooth alignment. 5. Higher Risk of Enamel Erosion: Dryness and acid exposure from mouth breathing make enamel more vulnerable to erosion, especially if combined with acidic foods or drinks. 6. Bad Breath (Halitosis): A dry mouth fosters bacterial growth, leading to persistent bad breath, which can also signal underlying dental issues. Nasal breathing (and mouth tape) can put a stop to this 🤐🦷 #fyp #sleep #health #sleepaid #wellness #snoring #dentist #dentista #dentistry #dentistlife #teeth #tooth #cavities #dental #dentalhygiene #dentalhealth