Why Does How I Breathe Matter?

 

Breathing is something we all do without thinking about, but does how we breathe actually make a difference to our overall health and well-being? The short answer is yes! Proper nasal breathing is crucial for good health, and is something that many people take for granted.

Breathing through our mouth is easy and gives us the amount of air we need, but it can have several negative effects on our health. Because the air is not filtered when we breathe through our mouth, it can increase the risk of respiratory infections, asthma, and allergies. Mouth breathing can also cause dry mouth, bad breath, cracked lips, cavities, and even increase stress and anxiety. (Blue Island Smiles, 2022)

In addition, mouth breathing can have a negative impact on our facial structure. When we breathe through our mouth, our facial muscles are not being used properly, and this leads to a narrower jaw and dental malocclusion which can cause a range of health issues, including sleep apnea and headaches.

So how should we breathe? Nasal breathing is the natural way of breathing, and it is the way that we were designed to breathe. When we breathe through our nose, the air is filtered, humidified, and warmed before it enters our lungs. Nose breathing produces nitric oxide which is a potent vasodilator. It increases blood flow and maintains a lower blood pressure. (Modern Family Dental Care, 2021)

Proper nasal breathing is especially important during childhood as it helps with facial development and prevents malocclusion and overcrowding. Nasal breathing also plays an important role in our sleep as it can reduce the risk of snoring and sleep apnea, both of which can have negative impacts on our health. Those who are in the habit of breathing through their mouth at night can try using mouth tape to ensure nasal breathing.

So when you are tempted to breathe through your mouth follow this simple advice. Stop it! Nasal breathing is essential for your overall health. Remember that the more you breathe through your nose, the more you CAN breathe through your nose. So start today and enjoy the benefits of improved health. 

“How Does Mouth Breathing Affect Oral Health?” Blue Island Smiles, 14 Jan 2022, https://www.blueislandsmiles.com/blog/how-does-mouth-breathing-affect-oral-health/ 

“5 Advantages of Nose Breathing.” Modern Family Dental Care, 27 Oct 2021, https://www.modernfamilydentalcare.com/5-advantages-of-nose-breathing/#:~:text=Breathing%20through%20your%20nose%20helps,from%2080%25%20to%20100%25.