The Effects of Mouth Breathing on Maxillofacial Development and Oral Health

Mouth breathing is a parafunctional habit where air is partially or completely inhaled through the mouth. Prolonged mouth breathing in children can lead to physical and cognitive developmental deficiencies, speech disorders, atypical swallowing, maxillofacial developmental impairment, skeletal malocclusions, and oral health problems. Early diagnosis of etiological factors and multidisciplinary treatment approaches are crucial in individuals exhibiting mouth breathing. This review aims to highlight the relationships between mouth breathing, maxillofacial development, and oral health, and to report on treatment approaches.