Mouth Breathing at Night? Here’s What It’s Doing to Your Teeth

Do you find yourself waking up with bad breath or a dry mouth? It might mean that you’re breathing through your mouth while you sleep, and it could be damaging your teeth more than you realize. Mouth breathing at night can lead to a decrease in saliva. 

Saliva is needed to neutralize acids, wash away bacteria, and protect your tooth enamel. So, without enough of it, your mouth becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Over time, this ultimately increases your risk of cavities, gum disease, and chronic bad breath. 

Dental Damage Can Add Up Fast

Mouth breathing can also lead to enamel erosion. This can make your teeth much more sensitive and prone to decay. It can also contribute to gum recession and expose the roots of your teeth, creating a longer tooth appearance. Over time, your untreated mouth breathing problem can also impact your bite and jaw alignment. 

Signs You’re a Nighttime Mouth Breather

Not sure? Here are some common indicators that might point to you being a nighttime mouth breather:

• You wake up with a dry mouth or sore throat
• Morning bad breath
• Cracked lips or irritated gums
• Snoring or nasal congestion

If you notice any of these signs, you definitely want to take action.

What to Do

There are many different ways to address mouth breathing and protect your overall oral health.

• See your Logan dentist: Your dentist can check for any enamel damage or gum inflammation.
• Treat nasal issues: If you have allergies or a deviated septum, you might need medical attention.
• Use a humidifier: This is a good way to add some moisture back into dry bedroom air.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is a great way to keep your saliva production up.
• Consider mouth taping: You can gently tape your lips shut at night, but you do want to consult with your doctor before trying this. 

Don’t Brush It Off

Mouth breathing at night is more than just an annoyance. It can cause long-term damage to your teeth and gums. So, before you brush it off as something minor, speak with your Logan dentist and see if they can help you come up with a more personalized solution to the problem.