OMT of York's mouth-breathing education is explicit: collaborate with an ENT or allergist first when tonsils, adenoids, allergies, or a deviated septum obstruct the airway.
Definition
- Once the airway is patent (open enough for comfortable nasal breathing), orofacial myologists help correct remaining Oral Rest Posture and habit patterns.
- Dentists and orthodontists join when tongue tie, narrow jaws, or dental alignment are part of the picture.
- This is team care — not a contest between specialties. The goal is a clear nose, healthy rest posture, and stable function.
When to use this guide
- Use this guide if chronic congestion, snoring, open-mouth sleep, or "allergic shiners" are present.
- Use it when myofunctional exercises feel impossible because nasal breathing is still blocked.
Failure modes
- Starting intensive rest-posture drills while the airway remains obstructed.
- Skipping medical evaluation because "it's just a habit."
- Assuming OMT replaces ENT or allergy care.
Proof & sources
- Mouth Breathing brochure (© 2019): treatment is a team effort; ENT/allergist first when structures or allergies block the airway.
- RDH Magazine "Eye Spy": referral pattern includes allergist/ENT for airway, orthodontist for expansion needs, orofacial myologist for rest posture.
- Site Airway & Sleep Health and Refer pathways emphasize collaboration.
Breathing habits
There is a right and a wrong way to breathe — humans are designed to be nasal breathers.
Flip between modes to compare what the practice teaches about breathing habits and facial growth. Educational only — not a diagnosis.
Nasal breathing
- Filters, warms, and humidifies air before it reaches the lungs
- Supports nitric oxide (NO) produced in the paranasal sinuses
- Pairs with healthy Oral Rest Posture: lips together, tongue on the palate
- Supports healthier facial growth patterns and dental development
Knowledge check · 1/1
When the nose is blocked, OMT education recommends:
Action
Not sure whether medical airway care should come first? Start with an evaluation — we help you understand sequencing with local ENTs and allergists.
Common questions
Will you refuse therapy until I see an ENT? +
We assess each case. When obstruction is likely, we explain why medical clearance supports better therapy outcomes and help you coordinate.
Sources
- OMT of York brochure: Mouth Breathing (© 2019)
- RDH Magazine: "Eye Spy" — Angie Lehman, RDH, COM