By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert
Breathing is an unconscious act we perform thousands of times a day, yet the method by which we breathe—through the nose or mouth—significantly impacts our health. Nasal breathing offers numerous advantages over mouth breathing, influencing everything from oxygen uptake to dental health. Understanding these benefits and learning how to become a better nasal breather can lead to substantial improvements in your overall well-being. Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert of Eggert Family Dentistry talk to their patients about nasal breathing many times each day. It is interesting how diseases of the mouth are linked to another feature on our face! Read on to learn more!
Benefits of Nasal Breathing
Breathing through your nose is the body’s natural and most efficient method. The nasal passages filter, warm, and humidify the air before it reaches your lungs, ensuring optimal conditions for gas exchange. This process enhances oxygen absorption and helps prevent respiratory issues. Additionally, nasal breathing produces nitric oxide, a molecule that plays a crucial role in dilating blood vessels, improving circulation, and boosting immune function. Check out this link describing how nasal breathing can impact an athlete’s performance: trainheroic.com.
In contrast, mouth breathing can lead to several health concerns. It often results in dry mouth, which diminishes saliva production—a natural defense against tooth decay and gum disease. Mouth breathing during sleep is associated with snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, conditions that disrupt restful sleep and can lead to daytime fatigue. Over time, habitual mouth breathing may even alter facial structures, leading to orthodontic issues.
Improving Nasal Breathing
Transitioning to nasal breathing requires conscious effort and practice. One effective method is the Buteyko technique, which emphasizes gentle, nasal-only breathing to improve respiratory efficiency. Patrick McKeown, in his book “Close Your Mouth,” outlines exercises such as controlled breath-holds and reduced breathing exercises to promote nasal breathing habits. Here is a link to more from Patrick McKeown: drchatterjee.com
Another strategy is to practice nasal breathing during physical activities. Start by focusing on maintaining nasal breathing during light exercises, gradually increasing intensity as your comfort improves. This practice not only enhances respiratory efficiency but also improves athletic performance by ensuring better oxygen delivery to muscles.
Role of Dental Professionals in Identifying Mouth Breathing
Dentists play a pivotal role in recognizing signs of mouth breathing. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Elizabeth Eggert and Dr. Jeff Eggert are adept at identifying symptoms associated with mouth breathing, such as dry mouth, inflamed gums, and certain tooth wear patterns, as well as increased tooth decay. They understand that mouth breathing can be linked to sleep disorders like sleep apnea and offer comprehensive evaluations to address these issues.
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Collaborative Approach to Encourage Nasal Breathing
If you’re identified as a mouth breather, Drs. Elizabeth and Jeff Eggert can guide you toward effective solutions. They may recommend myofunctional therapy, which involves exercises to strengthen the oral and facial muscles, promoting proper tongue posture and nasal breathing. For patients with sleep-related breathing disorders, they offer custom-fabricated oral appliances designed to maintain an open airway during sleep, thereby reducing reliance on mouth breathing.
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Incorporating nasal breathing into your daily routine can lead to significant health benefits, from improved dental health to better sleep quality. By understanding the advantages of nasal breathing and working with knowledgeable professionals like Drs. Elizabeth and Jeff Eggert, you can make meaningful strides toward enhanced well-being.
At Eggert Family Dentistry, whole body wellness is our goal for all our patients. We believe in “Dentistry for a Lifetime of Smiles.” Call us today it will be our pleasure to help you with your comprehensive care and overall health! 651-482-8412.