In this article, I will explain the essential information you need to know about the reasons for mouth breathing and, most importantly, how to identify and treat it. <\/p>\n\n
Table of Contents<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n For mouth breathers, it is crucial to address the underlying cause. The goal is to return to nasal breathing as quickly as possible, making it essential to identify the reason behind this habit for successful treatment. <\/p>\n\n The most common cause of mouth breathing is the presence of enlarged tonsils that obstruct the passage of air through the nose. It is normal<\/a> for children aged 2 to 6 to have hypertrophied tonsils, which gradually decrease after 10 years of age. <\/p>\n\n However, it is not typical for them to lead to persistent mouth breathing, which indicates they have become too large and require professional attention. In such cases, the chances of them returning to their normal size are low, and they can cause damage that cannot be spontaneously repaired by nasal breathing. <\/p>\n\n After identifying enlarged tonsils, the orthodontist may refer the patient to an ENT specialist to perform a tonsillectomy (removal of the tonsils) before continuing treatment.<\/p>\n\n Additionally, other possible reasons for this habit may stem from external factors that lead to nasal obstruction due to persistent mucus production. <\/p>\n\n Pollutants from environmental pollution or allergens have been associated with incorrect breathing. Whether you live in a densely populated city or have a pet that causes constant allergies, these factors can very well be the cause of long-term obstruction. <\/p>\n\n Nasal trauma can lead to a deviated septum, which reduces the passage of air to the lungs. This insufficient airflow often prompts the unconscious use of the mouth to get the necessary air. <\/p>\n\n Other possible reasons for chronic nasal breathing difficulties are related to obstruction caused by the excessive growth of tissues lining the nose and sinuses. Some of the most common causes are the formation of polyps or hypertrophy of the turbinates. <\/p>\n\n Whether we examine the face or the inside of the mouth, there are specific characteristics that allow us to identify and classify mouth breathers. <\/p>\n\n The medical term for a mouth breather’s face is “adenoid face<\/strong>.” It is generally characterized by a tired appearance, with sagging skin around the eyes, poorly defined cheekbones, a constantly open mouth, and a recessed chin. <\/p>\n\n During a child’s growth, circulating air guides the development of facial features. When mouth breathing becomes continuous, the absence of air pressure in the nose leads to the underdevelopment of surrounding structures. As the bones are not as prominent as they should be, the skin is not supported, giving it a sagging appearance and making the face look older. <\/p>\n\n As mentioned previously, the underdevelopment of certain bones can also be observed inside the mouth. The palate is quite deep with reduced width, not leaving enough space for the proper tongue position when the mouth is closed. <\/p>\n\n Furthermore, there is a misalignment between the upper and lower teeth<\/a>, known as a posterior crossbite. If this is not identified and treated promptly, it may require significant therapeutic intervention. <\/p>\n\n Continuously breathing through the mouth quickly dries out saliva<\/a>, which removes this natural lubricant that protects the teeth and increases the risk of bacterial infection, potentially leading to the formation of cavities or gum disease<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n Orthodontist. Dental Geneva, Geneva city center. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n
Causes of Mouth Breathing <\/h2>\n\n
Enlarged Tonsils or Adenoids<\/h3>\n\n
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Pollution or Allergies<\/h3>\n\n
Deviated Septum<\/h3>\n\n
Excessive Tissue Growth<\/h3>\n\n
Physical Characteristics<\/h2>\n\n
Facial Observation<\/h3>\n\n
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Oral Observation<\/h3>\n\n
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![\"Dr.](\"https:\/\/dentalgeneva.ch\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Orthodontiste-Invisalign-Patrick-Rodrigues-Lopes.webp\")
\nDr. Patrick Rodrigues Lopes<\/h3>\n
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