Often, with prolonged mouth-breathing due to allergies, nasal obstruction, deviated septum or just habit, the upper lip will shorten so that it does not cover the teeth. Because the tissue of the upper lip is muscular, and very flexible, it is possible to lengthen it to cover and protect the teeth. Dentists are often concerned about mouth-breathing because it dries the gums in the anterior part of the mouth and causes swelling and redness.

Large tonsils / adenoids and chronic nasal inflammation are contributors to mouth-breathing, tongue thrust and poor tongue posture. The inability to nasal breathe can cause a person to become a mouth-breather. By resting with the mouth open, the tongue must assume a low and forward position to allow for a maximum airway. The upper lip tends to become shorter as the lower lip tends to lengthen and internal oral tissues become exposed. As the lips and tongue assume the correct positions, nerve and muscle differences begin to take place. Muscles may under- or over-develop to accommodate the new habit and muscle pressure becomes misdirected.

Our therapy program begins by re-training the tongue to assume the correct resting and swallowing position of the roof on the mouth, as well as establishing a nasal-breathing pattern. Just as importantly, we teach the facial muscles to support this corrected position. This is accomplished by an exercise program designed to take about 5 minutes 3 times per day.