The Dangers of Mouth Breathing

Mouth breathing dries the oral cavity. This can, in turn, result in chronic bad breath and persistent dry mouth. It can also increase risks for gum disease, cavities, and general oral discomfort. Mouth breathers tend to have swollen and red gum tissue, likely a result of excessive drying and a loss of the protection offered by saliva.

Saliva, while mostly water, contains important antibacterial compounds in addition to mucus that assists in moistening food and easing the process of swallowing. Mouth breathers often have difficulties swallowing.

Many mouth breathers develop Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) as muscles and facial structure adapt to this irregular style of breathing. OMDs increase instances of speech problems, difficulties swallowing, and risks for developing TMJ.

Treating Mouth Breathing

Houston dentist Dr. Ronald Konig has found myofunctional therapy to be the most effective treatment option for people living with OMDs. This approach retrains muscles while focusing attention on habits such as tongue positioning and bruxism (tooth grinding) that can lead to OMD and increase risks for TMJ.

While the exact modalities used to treat your condition will be dependent on factors unique to your anatomy and the root cause of your disorder, we will work directly with you to find the most effective methods and help provide you lasting relief from the discomforts and risks associated with OMD.

If you suspect you are suffering from an Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder, please call our Houston office at 713-668-2289 to schedule a consultation with Konig. We welcome patients from Sugar Land and Katy, as well as The Woodlands, King, Conroe, and all surrounding Texas communities.

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