Tongue Posture, Mouth Breathing & Facial Development in Children

As parents, we notice so many little things about our children—the way they smile, how they sleep, and the habits they pick up as they grow. But some of the smallest details, like how the tongue rests in the mouth or whether a child breathes through their nose or mouth (mouth breathing), can have a lasting impact on facial growth, dental alignment, and even overall health.

Why Tongue Posture Matters

When a child’s tongue rests gently against the roof of the mouth, it applies steady pressure that helps guide the upper jaw (maxilla) to grow wide and forward. This creates enough space for teeth to come through without crowding, supports a balanced bite, and encourages healthy facial development.

If the tongue drops to the floor of the mouth instead—often because of blocked airways or mouth breathing—the growth pattern changes. The palate may become higher and narrower, the dental arches crowded, and the face longer. Over time, this can contribute to breathing difficulties and orthodontic problems.

The Role of Breathing Habits

Nasal breathing is essential for normal growth and health. When children breathe through their noses, the air is filtered, warmed, and humidified before reaching the lungs. Mouth breathing, on the other hand, is often linked to enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or allergies. It can:

• Disrupt tongue posture

• Lead to poor sleep quality and even childhood sleep apnoea

• Affect jaw and facial growth

  
  

Signs to watch for include:

• Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep

• Sleeping with the mouth open

• Teeth grinding or clenching

• Frequent drooling on pillows

• Bedwetting beyond age four

  
  

Diet & Early Habits

Generations ago, children chewed tougher, unprocessed foods that strengthened facial and jaw muscles. Today’s softer, processed diets don’t challenge these muscles in the same way. Encouraging children to eat whole, chewy foods—like apples, carrots, or crusty bread—can help support stronger jaws and better facial growth.

Supporting Healthy Development

The good news is that children’s growth patterns can be guided and supported. Early intervention makes a real difference. Some approaches include:

• Myofunctional therapy: exercises that retrain the tongue, lips, and facial muscles to promote nasal breathing and correct swallowing.

• Dental physiotherapy: hands-on care that addresses jaw mobility, tongue function, and muscle balance in the neck and face.

• Functional jaw appliances: specialised appliances that help guide jaw growth and improve alignment during childhood.

  
  

At our Buderim clinic, we take an integrated approach. Alongside manual therapy, we may use techniques like therapeutic exercises, postural and breathing retraining. We also link in with specialist dentists who may assist with dental appliances if required. Our goal is to help children breathe, sleep, and grow well—setting them up for a healthier future.

When to Seek Help

If you’ve noticed your child snoring, mouth breathing, or struggling with jaw pain, it’s worth having them assessed. Early action can prevent bigger challenges later on, both for dental alignment and overall health.

📍 Dental Physiotherapy with Lorraine Carroll & Simon Coghlan, Suite 2, 24–26 Gloucester Road, Buderim, Sunshine Coast📞 07 3532 8605🌐 www.lcscphysiotherapy.com.au🔗 Book an appointment online

By Lorraine