We’ve already discussed the difference between mouth breathing and nasal breathing and how detrimental mouth breathing is to your health. Becoming a nasal breather is something you can train your body to do over time. One of the ways you can train yourself to be a nasal breather is through mouth taping (the the practice of taping one’s mouth shut using medical tape or specially designed myo tape). We encourage people to start mouth taping during the day to get yourself used to it so when you start to do it at night there is no panic.
The main idea behind this practice is to encourage nasal breathing and prevent mouth breathing. Here are some of the benefits of mouth taping:
- Improved Oxygenation and Nitric Oxide Production. Nitric Oxide is produced in your sinuses so when you are mouth breathing, you are missing out on producing this necessary. (Nitric oxide is an essential molecule in your body that signals the blood vessels to open allowing blood, oxygen, and nutrients to flow freely.)
- Reduced Risk of Teeth Grinding. Teeth grinding occurs when the body forces the mouth open during an apnea event. Mouth taping promotes nasal breathing, so you will be less likely to grind your teeth (bruxism) which can lead to decay, yellowing of the teeth and gum recession. Enhanced Sleep Quality. Nasal breathing is associated with deeper and more restful sleep. Mouth taping leads to improved sleep quality and overall well-being.
- Reduced Risk of Dry Mouth. Mouth taping reduces dry mouth as it keeps the teeth bathed in saliva. Dry mouth increases the risk of cavities and lowers the ph of your mouth which allows bacteria to flourish.
- Encourages Correct Tongue Posture. Proper tongue posture, which involves resting the tongue against the roof of the mouth. Nasal breathing is done best when the tongue is in its proper position. Mouth taping, along with myofunctional therapy, helps you train your tongue to be in its proper position reducing the risks of mouth breathing and its negative health consequences.
It’s important to use medical grade tape or that which is specifically designed for the mouth and never general household tape like duct tape. Allergic reactions can occur, so it’s important to test the tape before sleeping with it all night. Not being able to mouth tape is a sign that there is a different root cause to your airway issues and additional medical attention is necessary.
During our evaluation of you, this is one of the recommendation we may make for you and your specific needs. Have questions about mouth taping or airway issues, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
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