Why should babies sleep with their mouths closed?
You might be wondering, “Does it really matter if my baby sleeps with their mouth open?” The answer is: YES, and here’s why—keeping that little mouth closed isn’t just adorable; it’s essential for their development and long-term health. Let’s break it down:
1. Better breathing = better sleep
Babies are designed to be nose breathers. When their mouths stay closed, air passes through the nose, where it’s filtered, warmed, and humidified. This helps prevent dry mouth and keeps airways moist, making breathing smoother and quieter. Mouth breathing can lead to snoring, interrupted sleep, and even mild sleep apnea in some cases. And we all know—better breathing means better sleep for everyone!
2. Facial development & growth
When your baby sleeps with their mouth closed, their tongue naturally rests on the roof of their mouth. This constant gentle pressure promotes proper facial development. Babies’ growing faces are highly malleable, and mouth-breathing can affect how their jaw, cheeks, and even nasal passages form. Long-term mouth breathing can result in a more narrow, elongated face with a higher risk of dental issues.
3. Palatal expansion & tongue posture
Did you know your baby’s palate (roof of the mouth) is actively shaping itself during infancy? When the tongue rests on the palate during sleep, it encourages the palate to broaden and flatten out, making room for future teeth and promoting a healthy bite. Mouth breathing, on the other hand, can leave the palate high and narrow, which can contribute to issues like crowding of teeth and needing orthodontic intervention later on.
How to encourage nose breathing:
• Check for nasal congestion: If your baby’s nose is stuffy, it’s natural for them to open their mouth to breathe. You can help by using saline drops and a nasal aspirator to gently clear things up.
• Check for ties: Tongue and lip ties can affect tongue posture, making it harder for your baby to keep their mouth closed. If you suspect a tie, consult with a lactation consultant or pediatric provider for an evaluation.
• Monitor sleep position: Babies sleeping with their heads tilted back or mouths open may benefit from a slightly adjusted sleep position. However, always follow safe sleep guidelines!
The takeaway?
A closed-mouth sleeper isn’t just cute—it’s a sign that your baby is breathing well, developing properly, and setting the stage for a healthy smile. Keeping their mouth closed during sleep helps with breathing, facial growth, and creating the perfect space for those future teeth to line up just right.
If you’re concerned about mouth breathing or have noticed your baby always sleeps with their mouth open, don’t hesitate to reach out to a provider. Early intervention can make a big difference!
Now go ahead—gently close that little mouth after the next midnight feeding, and rest easy knowing you’re helping your baby grow, breathe, and thrive!