BENEFITS OF FUNCTIONAL JAW ORTHOPEDICS IN THE TREATMENT OF MOUTH BREATHING

Abstract

Mouth breathing in childhood is a multifactorial condition that can significantly interfere with craniofacial development, orofacial functions, and overall pediatric health. Evidence indicates that altered respiratory patterns contribute to muscular and postural adaptations, leading to malocclusions and long-term structural changes. Within this context, Functional Jaw Orthopedics (FJO) emerges as an essential therapeutic approach, aiming to modulate craniofacial growth and restore adequate respiratory and muscular function through physiological stimulation. This narrative literature review explores the relationship between mouth breathing, facial growth, and stomatognathic balance, while highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and interdisciplinary management. The findings indicate that mouth-breathing children often exhibit decreased respiratory muscle strength, forward head posture, and a higher prevalence of occlusal alterations, reinforcing the relevance of timely identification and intervention. It is concluded that FJO represents an effective, non-invasive strategy for preventing and minimizing functional and structural sequelae related to mouth breathing, contributing to healthier development and improved quality of life during childhood.