How Does Mouth Breathing Cause a Dry Mouth and Dental Decay?

Mouth breathing is something most people don’t take seriously at all, particularly during sleep or because of allergy symptoms. But mouth breathing does actually have quite an effect on your dental health, despite the fact that few are aware of that. There are many reasons why you should pay attention to mouth breathing, including an increased likelihood of developing a dry mouth, halitosis, periodontal issues, and even tooth decay.

What is Mouth Breathing?

Mouth breathing happens when one breathes in through his mouth rather than his nose. It can occur during the day or even while asleep. Although sporadic mouth breathing is common during physical activities or a congested nose, constant mouth breathing could signal an existing problem.

Causes include the following:

• Congested nose because of allergies or a cold
• Deviation in the nasal septum
• Tonsils and/or adenoids that have grown too large
• Sleep apnea
• Sinusitis

How Mouth Breathing Leads to Dry Mouth

The saliva serves as an important factor for the well-being of the mouth. It cleanses the mouth, neutralizes acids, and prevents harmful bacteria from multiplying. The air passing through the mouth dries the oral cavity since there is continuous evaporation of moisture.

This situation results in dry mouth or xerostomia. In this case, the level of saliva is low, thus creating an atmosphere that allows bacteria to multiply. Mouth breathers usually experience a sticky and dry mouth, cracked lips, bad breath, throat irritation, and difficulty swallowing.

The Connection between Dry Mouth and Dental Decay

Low saliva production results in accumulation of harmful bacteria that can settle on teeth and gums. This is because bacteria thrive when there are sugars derived from food items present.

The process could result in:

Increased Cavities

With saliva production low, there would be prolonged acid presence on the teeth resulting in cavities.

Gum Problems

A dry mouth is ideal for growth of bacteria at the gum line which can cause swelling, gum bleeding and periodontal disease.

Halitosis

There will be rapid reproduction of bacteria within the mouth thus causing bad odor that will not be solved with normal brushing.

Tooth Sensitivity

The destruction of enamel by acids could make the teeth sensitive. Both children and adults who constantly use their mouth for breathing face higher chances of developing dental problems than those who are nasal breathers.

Mouth Breathing Symptoms

There are some people who do not realize that they breathe using their mouth, particularly when they are asleep. Some symptoms may include:

• Dry mouth upon waking
• Snoring
• Halitosis
• Decayed teeth
• Cracked lips
• Fatigue during the day

When experiencing such symptoms, it is vital to seek help from a doctor and a dentist.

How to Avoid Dental Issues Caused by Mouth Breathing

The most effective approach would be to address the actual reason for mouth breathing. The treatment process will vary depending on the actual cause but will include allergies, nose, and sleep apnea treatments.

In addition, good oral hygiene is very important. Some tips that could prove useful include:

• Staying hydrated
• Brushing your teeth regularly 
• Not eating too many sugars
• Rinsing mouth without alcohol
• Regular visits to the dentist

Conclusion

Not only is mouth breathing a sleeping disorder, but it can significantly impact your oral health in various ways, such as leading to dry mouth, promoting bacterial growth, and developing tooth decay and gum diseases. Regular checkups and professional care from a dentist can be essential to avoid such health risks.

At D. Dental, our patients get access to complete dental services that emphasize preventive measures for better oral health. Our highly qualified dentist, Dr. Ryan Daniel, will assist you in identifying any problems like dry mouth, tooth enamel erosion, and gum diseases.