What soft tissue factor can negatively impact dental development?

Mouth breathing is a soft tissue factor that can significantly affect dental development. This behavior alters the normal relationship between the lips, tongue, and the teeth, leading to potential malocclusions and other dental issues. When a person breathes primarily through the mouth instead of the nose, it can affect jaw growth and facial structure, often resulting in a long and narrow face, dental crowding, or an increased overbite.

In addition, mouth breathing is often associated with an improper resting posture of the tongue and lips, which can contribute to changes in orthodontic patterns. Such changes can disrupt the alignment of teeth and can impair the overall function of the oral cavity, making it crucial to address this factor in orthodontic assessments and treatment plans. This understanding is essential for ensuring proper dental development and guiding effective orthodontic interventions.