A peer-reviewed article written by JanaLee R. Gustafson, RDH; Suzette Foster, BA, RDH; Kandice Swarthout, MS, RDH, LPC
Abstract
A growing body of evidence demonstrates that nasal breathing provides clear health advantages over mouth breathing. Nasal breathing delivers warm, filtered air to the body and serves as the first line of defense against pathogenic invasion by bacteria and viruses in the air. It provides positive effects of bronchodilation and vasodilation and increases beneficial nitric oxide production through the paranasal sinuses. Moreover, recent studies have determined dysfunctional mouth breathing may lead to dental and facial deformities such as increased facial height, mandibular plane, gonial angle, and malocclusion development. Other oral conditions negatively affected by mouth breathing include increased xerostomia levels, gingivitis, halitosis, and tooth decay. Additionally, systemic problems due to mouth breathing include declining cardiovascular health, low sleep quality, fatigue, systemic inflammation, poor academic performance, and declining emotional health.
Educational objectives
- Examine peer-reviewed studies regarding the implications of both nasal and mouth breathing
- Evaluate the quality of evidence provided
- Determine why nasal breathing is favored over mouth breathing in support of overall and oral health
JANALEE R. GUSTAFSON, RDH, graduated from the dental hygiene program at Collin College. As a student, she served as treasurer of the student chapter of the South Carolina American Dental Hygienists’ Association (SCADHA). She plans to pursue a bachelor of science in dental hygiene at Texas Women’s University. Her most prized possession is her family. She also enjoys running and spending time at the lake on her SUP board or kayak.
SUZETTE FOSTER, BA, RDH, earned her education degree from Queens College and taught kindergarten through fifth grade in public elementary schools within New York, New Jersey, and Florida. Passionate about learning and oral health and wellness, she embarked on a new journey and is now a practicing registered dental hygienist. In her free time, Suzette enjoys gardening and boating with her partner, Luke, while together raising their three boys in Prosper, Texas.
KANDICE SWARTHOUT, MS, RDH, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor, registered dental hygienist, and full-time dental hygiene educator in Texas. Kandice is the owner of Inspired Education & Wellness, where she is a speaker, writer, and private practice therapist. She combines her clinical dental and mental health experience to help other health-care professionals have a fulfilling work-life experience. Read her articles in Dentistry IQ, Today’s RDH, and her blog on Facebook, Fearless Compassion: Stories of Personal Triumph.
Quick Access Code: 22102
Image credit: 479575576 © wxin | gettyimages.com
Course Includes
- 1 Lesson
- 1 Test
- Course Certificate
CE credit(s): 3
Course Type: Written
Published Date: September 2022
This continuing education (CE) activity was developed by Endeavor Business Media with no commercial support.
This course was written for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, from novice to skilled.
Educational methods: This course is a self-instructional journal and web activity.
Provider disclosure: Endeavor Business Media neither has a leadership position nor a commercial interest in any products or services discussed or shared in this educational activity. No manufacturer or third party had any input in the development of the course content.
Requirements for successful completion: To obtain 3 CE credits for this educational activity, you must pay the required fee, review the material, complete the course evaluation, and obtain an exam score of 70% or higher.
CE planner disclosure: Laura Winfield, Endeavor Business Media dental group CE coordinator, neither has a leadership nor commercial interest with the products or services discussed in this educational activity. Ms. Winfield can be reached at lwinfield@endeavorb2b.com.
Educational disclaimer: Completing a single continuing education course does not provide enough information to result in the participant being an expert in the field related to the course topic. It is a combination of many educational courses and clinical experience that allows the participant to develop skills and expertise.
Image authenticity statement: The images in this educational activity have not been altered.
Scientific integrity statement: Information shared in this CE course is developed from clinical research and represents the most current information available from evidence-based dentistry.
Known benefits and limitations of the data: The information presented in this educational activity is derived from the data and information contained in the reference section.
Registration: The cost of this CE course is $39.00 for 3 CE credits.
Cancellation and refund policy: Any participant who is not 100% satisfied with this course can request a full refund by contacting Endeavor Business Media in writing.
Provider information:
Dental Board of California: Provider RP5933. Course registration number CA code: 03-5933-22102. Expires August 2025. “This course meets the Dental Board of California’s requirements for 3 units of continuing education.”
Endeavor Business Media is a nationally approved PACE program provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.
Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.
11/1/2022 to 10/31/2024.
Provider ID# 320452
AGD code: 010
Endeavor Business Media is designated as an approved Provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHPNW (January 1, 2022–December 31, 2024). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit. AADH code:
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ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of dental continuing education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.
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