Many parents believe that children start mouth breathing because they experience frequent colds, sore throats, or respiratory infections.
However, research suggests that the opposite may often be true.
Chronic mouth breathing can predispose children to more infections. Research dating back to the 1980s and continuing through recent years shows that mouth breathing is linked with a higher risk of respiratory infections.
This means a child who already breathes through the mouth may be more likely to develop frequent sore throats, tonsillitis, or bronchitis.
Because of this, it is important to consider what is the cause and what is the effect.
Why Nasal Breathing Matters
When a child breathes through the mouth instead of the nose, they lose several natural protective functions.
These include:
Without these functions, the throat and tonsils are exposed to cooler, drier, unfiltered air and pathogens. This can increase inflammation and the risk of infection.
What Research Shows
Research supports this relationship.
Abreu et al., 2008 (Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology) found that mouth-breathing children had significantly higher rates of recurrent tonsillitis and upper respiratory infections compared with nasal breathers.
Souki et al., 2009 (International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology) reported that mouth breathers had greater frequency of respiratory infections, allergic rhinitis, and enlarged tonsils or adenoids.
In other words, sometimes the breathing pattern is not the result of illness — it may be part of the cause.
When to Look Deeper
It is also important to understand what is considered typical for childhood illness.
Children should not normally be sick more than once every other month, or once every three to four months when they are older. Illness should also not last more than about a week.
If a child frequently needs inhalers or nebulizers, it may be a sign that something else is going on and that the underlying cause should be investigated further.
Why Early Attention Matters
Addressing nasal breathing, airway health, and oral posture early can make a meaningful difference to a child’s overall health.
Understanding the relationship between breathing patterns and respiratory health helps parents and healthcare professionals identify potential issues earlier and support healthier breathing habits as children grow.
Dr. Tina Rokadia
BDS, CAGS, MSD
Specialist Prosthodontist & Airway Dentist
Specialist Prosthodontist & Airway Dentist
