How Poor Nasal Breathing Can Lead to Facial Pain
At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh, we often find that most people don’t realize how limited their nasal breathing is. Reduced nasal airflow can start in childhood for many people, sometimes as early as age five or six. Even though this breathing pattern isn’t ideal, it feels “normal” by adulthood. We use a simple, noninvasive nasal breathing demonstration to help patients experience the difference. They are frequently surprised by this brief test, which demonstrates how limited their breathing has been and how much better it feels to have their nasal breathing return to normal.
Mouth Breathing and Muscle Overuse
When nasal breathing is blocked—due to allergies, a deviated septum, or turbinate swelling—many people breathe through the mouth. This places extra strain on jaw and facial muscles, often leading to pain and dysfunction. Chronic overuse can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain.
Postural Changes and Jaw Dysfunction
Chronic mouth breathing causes the tongue to rest low and the head to tilt forward, altering jaw posture and increasing tension in neck and facial muscles. This can lead to myofascial pain and TMJ issues.
Sinus Pressure and Referred Pain
Inflamed or blocked sinuses can create facial pressure and pain. Because sinus nerves share pathways with the TMJ and teeth, pain may be felt in the jaw, cheeks, or around the eyes.
Sleep-Disordered Breathing and Clenching
Obstructed nasal airflow during sleep may contribute to conditions like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS). In response, the body may clench or grind the teeth, stressing the jaw and facial muscles. Explore our oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea.
Chronic Inflammation
Persistent nasal inflammation from allergies or infections can heighten nerve sensitivity in the face, making patients more prone to facial pain and discomfort.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing chronic facial pain, poor nasal breathing may be part of the cause. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Belasco at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Pittsburgh.