WE RARELY think about breathing. It is as natural as the oxygen around us.
That is, until breathing becomes a problem.
One habit gaining increasing attention from dentists, sleep specialists, and doctors in general, is mouth breathing.
While it may seem harmless, experts say breathing primarily through the mouth instead of the nose can have real health implications, especially when it becomes chronic.
Mouth breathing occurs when a person habitually breathes through their mouth rather than their nose, either during the day, at night, or both.
It can happen for many reasons, including nasal congestion from allergies or colds, a deviated septum, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, chronic sinus issues, or structural problems in the jaw or airway.
In children, mouth breathing is often linked to enlarged adenoids, while in adults it is frequently associated with nasal obstruction or sleep-related breathing disorders.
The adenoid, also known as the pharyngeal tonsil, or nasopharyngeal tonsil, are a part of the immune system that recognizes and traps pathogens such as bacteria and viruses.
Occasional mouth breathing — during intense exercise or a temporary illness — is normal. The concern arises when it becomes a default breathing pattern.
Nose breathing matters because the nose is designed for breathing. It filters dust and pathogens, humidifies and warms incoming air, and helps regulate airflow to the lungs.
Nasal breathing also promotes the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that improves oxygen uptake and supports blood vessel function.
Mouth breathing bypasses these protective mechanisms. Air enters the lungs colder, drier, and unfiltered, which can irritate airways and reduce breathing efficiency.
Chronic mouth breathing has been linked to a range of issues. Common short-term effects include dry mouth, bad breath, sore throat, and increased risk of cavities and gum disease due to reduced saliva. Over time, the consequences can be more significant.
In children, persistent mouth breathing may affect facial growth and dental development, sometimes leading to long, narrow faces, crowded teeth, or misaligned jaws. It can also contribute to behavioral issues, poor concentration, and sleep problems.
In adults, mouth breathing is often associated with snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Poor sleep quality can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and daytime fatigue.
Should You Be Worried? Not everyone who breathes through their mouth occasionally needs to worry.
The key question is frequency and cause. If mouth breathing is persistent, especially during sleep, or accompanied by symptoms such as loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, frequent infections, or dental problems, it may be worth investigating.
Healthcare professionals such as dentists, primary care doctors, ENT specialists, or sleep specialists can help identify underlying causes. Treatment might include managing allergies, correcting nasal blockages, orthodontic interventions, breathing retraining, or addressing sleep disorders.
The bottom line: mouth breathing is more than a quirky habit — it can be a sign of an underlying issue and a contributor to long-term health problems.
While occasional mouth breathing is normal, chronic mouth breathing deserves attention. Understanding how you breathe, and why, may be a small but important step toward better sleep, oral health, and overall well-being.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim, Ed. D., is the former Associate Dean of the College of Dentistry, University of the East; former Dean, College of Dentistry, National University; Past President and Honorary Fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy; Honorary Fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists; Honorary Life Member of the Thai Association of Dental Implantology; and Founding Chairman of the Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.
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Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI, graduated Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of the Philippines, College of Dentistry, Manila, 2011; Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management, De la Salle University, Manila, 2002; and Master of Science (MSc.) in Oral Implantology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, 2019. He is an Associate Professor; Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists; and Fellow, Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail limdentalcenter@gmail.com./PN
