The way we breathe is closely linked to facial and jaw development, especially in growing children. Children who breathe through their mouth all the time more often show orthodontic signs such as a narrow upper jaw, crowded teeth and an open bite. This is why the airway is also considered in an orthodontic assessment.
Possible effects of mouth breathing
- The tongue resting low in the mouth and the upper jaw not widening enough
- A narrow palate and crossbite
- Vertical lengthening of the face
- Lips held apart, dry mouth
- Increased risk of gum inflammation and decay
Which signs should you watch for?
- Sleeping with the mouth open and snoring
- Noticing pauses in breathing during sleep
- Daytime tiredness, poor concentration
- Constant nasal congestion
- A narrow, high palate and crowded teeth
Airway assessment in orthodontics
In an orthodontic examination, the jaw relationships, palate width, tongue position and lip closure are examined. A cephalometric X-ray and, where needed, 3D imaging can give an idea of the general structure of the upper airway. However, diagnosing sleep disorders is not the orthodontist's field but that of a sleep specialist and an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.
What can orthodontic treatment do?
- [Palatal expansion](/ortodontik-cene-genisletme-tedavisi): Widening a narrow upper jaw can also contribute to some widening of the nasal floor.
- [Treatment of a retruded lower jaw](/ortodontik-alt-cene-ilerletme-tedavisi): Supporting forward growth of the lower jaw during growth.
- Correcting habits: Guidance on tongue position and lip closure.
The effect of orthodontic treatment on breathing varies from person to person, and a marked change should not be expected in every case.
A multidisciplinary approach
Mouth breathing may be caused by enlarged tonsils and adenoids, allergic rhinitis or a problem with the structure of the nose. This is why assessment together with an ENT specialist, a paediatrician and, if needed, a sleep specialist is recommended.
When should an assessment be done?
If your child sleeps with their mouth open, snores and has crowded teeth, it is helpful not to delay the first orthodontic check-up. For details, see our early orthodontic treatment page.
