why is it bad to mouth-breathe?
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Mouth-breathing can have several negative effects on health, as discussed by in the . Here are some key reasons why mouth-breathing is considered bad:
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Oral Health Issues: Mouth-breathing can dry out the mouth, leading to an acidic environment that promotes tooth decay and oral health problems. This is because the drying effect can shift the mouth from a remineralization state to a demineralization state, making it easier for bacteria to cause cavities 1.
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Increased Infection Risk: The nasal passages are better equipped than the mouth to filter out viruses and bacteria. Breathing through the nose helps protect against infections, while mouth-breathing increases susceptibility to colds, flus, and other respiratory illnesses 2 3.
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Facial and Dental Changes: Chronic mouth-breathing can lead to changes in facial structure and dental malocclusions, affecting aesthetics and potentially leading to other health issues. Nasal breathing supports better jaw and facial development, particularly during childhood 4 5.
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Reduced Respiratory Efficiency: Nasal breathing increases the resistance to airflow, which helps inflate the lungs more fully and efficiently. It also warms and moistens the air, which is healthier for the lungs. Mouth-breathing, especially hard breathing, can be damaging over time 5.
Overall, while it may be necessary to mouth-breathe during intense exercise or certain activities, it is generally advised to prioritize nasal breathing whenever possible for better health outcomes.
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