Mouth Breathing Effects
How chronic mouth breathing affects facial and dental development in children.
Chronic mouth breathing in children, often caused by enlarged adenoids, allergies, or deviated septum, can significantly affect craniofacial development. Effects include long face syndrome (elongated facial growth), narrow upper jaw, high palatal vault, dental crowding, gummy smile, and posterior crossbite. Additionally, mouth breathing reduces saliva flow, increasing cavity risk. Children may develop 'adenoid facies' — open lips, narrow nostrils, and receded chin. Early intervention is important: addressing the underlying cause (allergies, adenoid removal), myofunctional therapy to retrain nasal breathing, and orthodontic expansion of the upper arch if needed. Treatment before age 10 yields the best outcomes due to ongoing growth.