Mouth Breathing
Why is Mouth Breathing bad?
Mouth breathing can lead to more dental caries because keeping the mouth open at night can lead to dryness in the oral cavity, contributing to an increased bacterial count. This in turn can lead to increased cavity formation. Additionally an open mouth posturing at night can also lead to an “adenoid facies” or an elongated, slender jaw appearance.
What are common causes of Mouth Breathing?
- Adenoid hypertrophy*
- Deviated septum
- Chronic Allergies
- Low perioral muscle tone
- Prominent front teeth, overbite
*Most common cause of chronic mouth breathing in children
How are adenoids evaluated?
- Flexible fiberoptic or rigid nasal scope
- Lateral neck x-ray
Does tonsil removal weaken the immune system?
No. Removing the tonsils does not weaken the immune system and this has been shown in a number of studies. The tonsils are part of the immune system and they produce lymphocytes which do aid in fighting infection. They capture bacteria, viruses, allergens, and other antigens. If they are chronically infected and lead to illness or are enlarged leading to breathing issues at night, then they produce more harm then good. As a result it is beneficial to remove them.
When should I use antibiotic eardrops I was prescribed?
Antibiotic eardrops (i.e. Ciprodex, Floxin, or Otovel ) are to be used only when a drainage from the middle ear occurs from a suspected bacterial infection. They are only effective when there is a hole in the eardrum from ear tubes or from a perforated eardrum due to infection. The ototopical drops are also effective in Swimmer’s Ear, or otitis externa. These antibiotic eardrops should not be used for excessive wax or ear pain. Overuse of antibiotic drops can lead to a fungal infection called “otomycosis.” This can be difficult to treat and would require antifungal treatment.
What are turbinates?
Turbinates are structures on the inside of our nose along the lateral (wall). We have three in each nostril: a superior, middle, and inferior turbinate. The bulge seen when you look up your nose is the inferior turbinate. The middle and superior turbinate is usually only visible with an otoscope or nasal endoscope. Turbinates are made of mucosal tissue and bone. They are very important in directing airflow and also contain olfactory (smell) receptors on their surface. People that have bad allergies can have turbinate hypertrophy, or enlargening of their turbinates, especially the inferior and middle turbinates.