Development of Nasal Breathing for Children

July 11, 2024

Development of Nasal Breathing for Children

Key Takeaways

Nasal breathing helps the tongue rest in the correct posture, pressed up against the palate and shaping it into a healthy U-shape.
When a binky (pacifier) is used, the constant pressure on the front teeth and improper tongue positioning can create an open bite.
Chewing can reduce fidgeting and supports the development of strong dental arches, because the bone that supports the teeth strengthens when stimulated and weakens without stimulation.
A chewing necklace should be used on both sides of the mouth and can offer an alternative for children wanting to break the habit of thumb sucking or nail biting.
Polyester children's toys are not safe for babies to chew on because they shed microplastics, making natural materials like cotton and silicone safer choices.

Developing nasal breathing can be a challenge for most children, but it is nasal breathing that helps the tongue to be in the correct posture – pressed up against the palate, shaping the palate into a nice U-shape. When a binky is used, the constant pressure on the front teeth and the improper positioning of the tongue can create an open bite. The following sensory toys can help a child to breathe through their nose while chewing something on various teeth, thereby minimizing the risk of an open bite while enjoying the various sensory stimulation on their mouth:

This bunny is made of 100% silicone and has multiple textures and soft ridges that can not only be used to massage and soothe teething front teeth, but can easily fit in the back of the mouth to soothe those back molars which are often so painful! This teethed can also be cooled in a freezer for some cooling relief. In addition, this teether helps babies to figure out how to grasp things and use their hands to develop manual dexterity.

Often we focus on the chewing and teething needs of babies and toddlers, but older children teethe too, and even when not teething, it feels good to have a chewy toy that doesn’t look like it’s made for an infant. This sensory necklace has a cool design that can be worn when going to school or even by adults! Chewing can help reduce fidgeting and can improve the development of strong dental arches, because bone that supports our teeth strengthens itself when stimulated, while lack of stimulation results in weaker bone. This chewing necklace should be used on both sides of the mouth and can help give an alternative for those who would like to break the habit of thumb sucking or nail biting.

So many sensory experiences with this cute bunny! While many children’s toys are made of polyester, which is not safe for babies to chew on because it sheds micro plastics, this cute sensory bunny is made of cotton!

In addition to the silicone teether, the cloth and ribbons give a variety of touch sensations, while the crinkly sound that is inside the feet and arms is entertaining to the ears. The small size makes it easy to bring along on car rides. And how cute is the bunny!

Whether for teething or for chewing, or just as a fidget toy, this multi-textured teether made of wood and silicone is a great addition to stimulate a little one’s senses. It has 4.9 stars on Amazon so it is child and parent approved!

Made of wood and cotton, this toy has multiple textures and a rattle that is not too loud, so that it is enough to stimulate the sense of hearing, but not too loud to be annoying to everyone around. It can be used to improve hand-eye coordination, introduce patterns through rhythm, and develop listening skills.

My baby absolutely loves this sensory teether that encourages proper biting and jaw development and brushes gums at the same time! It is made of 100% silicone, and I like this clear one because it doesn’t have any dyes added to it. This is a must for infants and toddlers.

And as a dentist, how could I not end with a baby banana toothbrush. My babies have all enjoyed this silicone toothbrush, as well as a silicone finger toothbrush, which helps to relieve sore gums. The silicone toothbrush has those little silicone bristles that can soothe sore gums and to encourage toothbrushing from an early age.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is nasal breathing important for my child's mouth development?

Nasal breathing helps the tongue stay in the correct posture, pressed up against the palate, which shapes the palate into a healthy U-shape.

Can a pacifier affect my child's teeth?

Yes. When a binky is used, the constant pressure on the front teeth and the improper positioning of the tongue can create an open bite.

How does chewing help my child's teeth and jaw?

Chewing can reduce fidgeting and improve the development of strong dental arches, because the bone that supports the teeth strengthens itself when stimulated, while lack of stimulation results in weaker bone.

Can chewing toys help my child stop thumb sucking or nail biting?

A chewing necklace can give an alternative for children who would like to break the habit of thumb sucking or nail biting, and it should be used on both sides of the mouth.

Are polyester toys safe for babies to chew on?

No. Polyester is not safe for babies to chew on because it sheds microplastics, so toys made of materials like cotton are a safer choice.