Mouth breathing can significantly impact oral health, leading to various dental issues, especially plaque buildup. A study conducted by Mummolo et al. (2018) focused on understanding these effects by comparing mouth breathers to nose breathers. The researchers found that mouth breathers are at a higher risk of developing dental problems, particularly due to increased levels of dental plaque and harmful bacteria.
Key Insights from the Study
Increased Plaque Index (PI) Among Mouth Breathers: Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth from leftover food particles. If not removed, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to gum disease and other dental issues.
The study measured the amount of dental plaque using the Plaque Index (PI). High PI scores indicate poor oral hygiene and a higher risk of dental problems.
The results from the study showed that mouth breathers had significantly higher PI scores compared to nose breathers. At three months (t1), 60% of mouth breathers had a PI score of 1. At six months (t2), 65% had a PI score of 1 and 35% had a PI score of 2. The PI score was significantly lower in nose breathers.
Higher Risk of Harmful Bacteria in Mouth Breathers: The study also found out that mouth breathers have a four times higher risk of developing elevated levels of Streptococcus mutans, a type of bacteria that causes tooth decay. These bacteria produce acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
Why Mouth Breathers Have More Plaque Buildup
Mouth breathing often leads to a dry mouth because it reduces saliva production. Saliva is crucial for maintaining oral health as it helps wash away food particles, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria, and provides disease-fighting substances.
Constant mouth breathing causes the evaporation of water from saliva, making the mouth drier and more susceptible to plaque buildup and bacterial growth.
Thus, breathing through the nose is essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Nasal breathing helps ensure that saliva production remains adequate, which is vital for washing away food particles and neutralizing harmful acids in the mouth. This natural defense mechanism is compromised when mouth breathing dries out the oral cavity, creating an environment where plaque and harmful bacteria can thrive.
Encouraging nasal breathing, especially in children, can significantly reduce the risk of developing dental issues such as cavities and gum disease.
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References:
Mummolo S, Quinzi V, Dedola A, Albani F, Marzo G, Campanella V (2020) Oral Microbiota in Mouth-Breathing Patients. J Oral Hyg Health 8: 259. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29693018/
