Mouth breathing occurs when an individual primarily breathes through their mouth instead of their nose. While occasional mouth breathing, such as during strenuous exercise or a temporary cold, is normal, long-term mouth breathing can lead to various health concerns, including changes in facial structure.
How Facial Structure Develops
Proper facial and jaw development relies on healthy nasal breathing and correct tongue posture. The tongue’s natural resting position is against the roof of the mouth, or palate. This gentle, consistent pressure supports the outward and forward growth of the upper jaw and midface, contributing to a well-defined jawline and balanced facial appearance.
When mouth breathing becomes habitual, the tongue often drops to a low resting position, away from the palate. This altered posture removes the necessary upward pressure on the upper jaw. Without this support, the palate can narrow, and the upper jaw may develop incorrectly, often growing downward and backward rather than forward. This shift in growth patterns can contribute to observable changes in facial aesthetics and function.
Specific Facial Changes
Chronic mouth breathing can lead to distinct alterations in facial structure due to modified growth patterns. A common outcome is a longer, narrower face, sometimes called “adenoid face” or “long face syndrome.” This elongated appearance often includes a receding chin and a flatter midface.
The lack of proper tongue support can also result in a narrowed upper jaw. This narrowing often leads to crowded teeth, as there isn’t enough space for them to align naturally, or an open bite, where the upper and lower front teeth do not meet. Some individuals who habitually mouth breathe may also exhibit darker circles under their eyes. These changes result from altered growth direction and forces on facial bones and dental arches.
Impact Across Age Groups
The effects of mouth breathing on facial structure vary with age, primarily due to the malleability of developing bones. Children, whose facial bones are still growing and adaptable, are particularly susceptible to significant and permanent changes. Early intervention during these formative years is crucial, as establishing proper nasal breathing and tongue posture can guide facial development toward a more favorable outcome.
In adults, whose facial bones are largely fused, mouth breathing results in more subtle changes or can worsen existing issues rather than causing dramatic structural shifts. While significant reshaping of the facial skeleton is less likely, chronic mouth breathing in adults can still contribute to other health concerns, such as dry mouth, bad breath, and sleep apnea. The mechanical forces continue to exert influence, but the bone’s mature state limits extensive remodeling.
Addressing Mouth Breathing
Identifying and addressing mouth breathing involves recognizing common symptoms, such as snoring, a dry mouth upon waking, and chronic nasal congestion. Often, the primary cause is an obstruction in the nasal airway, which forces breathing through the mouth. Conditions like enlarged adenoids or tonsils, allergies, a deviated septum, or nasal polyps can contribute to this obstruction.
Interventions frequently involve a multidisciplinary approach to correct mouth breathing and mitigate its effects. Consulting an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist is often a first step to identify and treat any underlying nasal obstructions. This might involve medication, such as antihistamines or nasal sprays, or surgical procedures. Orthodontic treatment can address dental and jaw alignment issues, while myofunctional therapy can help retrain proper tongue posture and establish healthy nasal breathing habits.