Many parents assume orthodontic treatment only begins in the teenage years when braces are fitted. However, crooked teeth are rarely just genetic—they are the physical symptom of incorrect oral habits, low tongue posture, and mouth breathing.
What is a Myofunctional Orthodontist?
Myofunctional orthodontics treats the underlying causes of crooked teeth and narrow jaws during childhood (ages 4–12). By combining gentle pre-orthodontic appliances (such as Myobrace) with tongue exercises, we train children to rest their tongue against the roof of the mouth, breathe strictly through their nose, and swallow correctly without facial grimacing.
The Link Between Mouth Breathing, Adenoids, and Tonsils
When a child breathes through their mouth, dry, unconditioned air passes directly over the tonsils and adenoids, carrying airborne pathogens and allergens. This causes chronic lymphoid inflammation and hypertrophy. In turn, enlarged adenoids block the nose, forcing even more mouth breathing.
How Myofunctional Therapy Breaks the Cycle:
- Nasal Airflow Restoration: Retraining nasal breathing stimulates nasal nitric oxide release, a natural antimicrobial and vasodilator that opens the airway.
- Airway Muscle Tone: Exercising the pharyngeal and tongue muscles prevents airway collapse during sleep.
- Natural Palatal Widening: The tongue provides 500 grams of natural outward shaping force against the upper teeth, widening the dental arch without heavy mechanical appliances.
- Long-Term Stability: Eliminating mouth breathing prevents orthodontic relapse, ensuring straight teeth for life.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Santosh at our Myofunctional Therapy in Chennai center today.
Concerned about your child's snoring, mouth breathing, or enlarged adenoids? Learn how early orthopedic palatal expansion opens the nasal airway naturally with our Pediatric Airway Dentistry in Chennai, or take our free online Pediatric Sleep Assessment Test.