If your baby is sleeping with their mouth open, it can lead to snoring, dry mouth, and other issues. Our article provides 11 simple tips to help you stop your baby from sleeping with their mouth open and promote better sleep and overall health. Check it out now!
Does your baby sleep with their mouth open? While it may look adorable, it can actually cause a range of issues such as snoring, dry mouth, and even dental problems. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
In this article, we’ll be sharing 11 easy and effective ways to help your baby stop sleeping with their mouth open, so you can both enjoy better sleep and a healthier, happier baby. So, let’s dive in and say goodbye to open-mouthed sleeping for good!
Is it OK if baby sleeps with mouth open?
It is generally considered okay if a baby sleeps with their mouth open. It is a common occurrence among infants and young children, especially if they have a cold or are congested. Sleeping with an open mouth helps to facilitate breathing through the mouth, which can be easier for babies than breathing through the nose.
However, if you notice that your baby is consistently sleeping with their mouth open and also snoring, it is worth speaking to your pediatrician. Snoring in babies can be a sign of sleep apnea or other sleep-related breathing disorders that may require medical attention.
It is also important to note that sleeping with an open mouth can cause the mouth and throat to dry out, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and other oral health problems. To help prevent this, make sure your baby is getting enough fluids during the day, and consider using a humidifier in their room at night to keep the air moist.
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11 tips to stop baby sleeping with mouth open
Here are 11 tips to help stop your baby from sleeping with their mouth open
Sleeping Positions for Babies with Blocked Nose
Positional Training
One of the best ways to prevent your baby from sleeping with their mouth open is by training them to sleep in the correct position.
Place your baby on their back and ensure that their head is elevated slightly by using a pillow or a rolled-up towel. This helps keep their airways open and can also reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
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Nasal Strips
Nasal strips can be a lifesaver for babies who tend to breathe through their mouth when sleeping. These strips work by gently pulling the nasal passages open, allowing your baby to breathe more easily through their nose.
One of the best options available are these strips, which are safe for babies and can help improve sleep quality.
Kids Nasal Strips - Opens Your Child's Nose To Relieve Nasal Congestion,...
Mother Sparsh Natural Vapour Patches For Kids With Eucalyptus Oil, Peppermint Oil...
- Camphor-Free All-Natural Formulation: Mother Sparsh Natural Vapour Patches are designed to provide instant relief from nasal congestion. Crafted with soothing oils such as Eucalyptus Oil and Peppermint Oil, these patches are safe for use with your child (Suitable for 3+ Years).
- Camphor-Free All-Natural Formulation: Mother Sparsh Natural Vapour Patches are designed to provide instant relief from nasal congestion. Crafted with soothing oils such as Eucalyptus Oil and Peppermint Oil, these patches are safe for use with your child (Suitable for 3+ Years).
- Residue-Free Vapour Patches: Experience up to 8 hours* of relief from nasal congestion with our residue-free formula. Formulated with 100% natural ingredients, these patches ensure your baby sleeps peacefully through the entire night.
- 100% Natural Ingredients: Our Natural Vapour Patch Box contains 5 patches, lasting throughout an entire cold cycle. These all-natural ingredients deliver instant relief from nasal congestion, harnessing the goodness of Eucalyptus oil and Peppermint oil
- Safe & Natural: To ensure the highest standards of care for your baby, our Vapour Patch is made with safe and natural ingredients. It contains NO Camphor, phenoxyethanol, mineral oil, toxins, or synthetic fragrances for quick relief from runny nose
Humidifier
Dry air can cause irritation and congestion in your baby’s nasal passages, making it difficult for them to breathe through their nose. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, making it easier for your baby to breathe.
We recommend this brand of humidifier, which is designed specifically for babies and has a night light to help soothe your little one to sleep.
Rosekm Humidifiers For Bedroom, 4.5 liter Humidifiers For Home Large Room, Cool...
- LONG-LASTING COMFORT: Relieve congestion, coughing, and dry skin with up to 40 hours of continuous moisture from a 4.5L (1.2 gal) capacity on low mist setting.
- FLEXIBLE TIMER OPTIONS: Set your shut-off timer as per your comfort, choose from 1, 2, 4, or 8 hours. Your comfort, perfectly matched to your daily routine.
- LONG-LASTING COMFORT: Relieve congestion, coughing, and dry skin with up to 40 hours of continuous moisture from a 4.5L (1.2 gal) capacity on low mist setting.
- FLEXIBLE TIMER OPTIONS: Set your shut-off timer as per your comfort, choose from 1, 2, 4, or 8 hours. Your comfort, perfectly matched to your daily routine.
- PERFECT FOR PEACEFUL NIGHTS: An ultra-quiet companion to lull you into deep, restorative sleep. Breathe easier, sleep better.
- PERSONALIZED MIST CONTROL: Experience the ease of adjusting mist levels to Low, Mid, or High with a simple touch, creating your perfect ambiance.
- CONTROLLED COVERAGE: With the 360° nozzle, you control the direction of the mist, providing focused humidity where it's needed most.
- NO WATER, NO MIST: This humidifier will automatically stop producing mist when the water tank is empty, ensuring your safety and appliance longevity.
- 5-YEAR WARRANTY: Enjoy peace of mind with the Rosekm humidifier, which comes with a five-year warranty. Our customer support team is here to ensure your satisfaction!
Pacifier
A pacifier can help your baby to breathe through their nose, as it encourages them to keep their mouth closed while sleeping. It also helps to soothe them and can reduce the risk of SIDS.
One of the best pacifiers for babies who sleep with their mouths open is this one, which is BPA-free and recommended by pediatricians.
Philips Avent BPA Free Vanilla Green Soothie Pacifier, 0-3 Months, 4 Pack
- Philips Avent BPA Free Vanilla Green Soothie Pacifier, 0-3 Months, 4 Pack
- Philips Avent BPA Free Vanilla Green Soothie Pacifier, 0-3 Months, 4 Pack
Mouth Taping
Mouth taping involves using a gentle tape to keep your baby’s lips closed while they sleep.
This can help train them to breathe through their nose and can also prevent dry mouth. However, it’s important to only use tape that is safe for babies, such as this one.
Medipore Soft Cloth Surgical Tape 1 Inch 10 Yards, 1/Pack of 2...
& Free shipping
Allergy Management
Allergies can cause nasal congestion and make it difficult for your baby to breathe through their nose. If you suspect that your baby has allergies, consult your pediatrician for advice. They may recommend using an allergy medication or a specialized allergy pillow to help alleviate symptoms.
Tongue Retraining
Sometimes, babies breathe through their mouths because their tongue is positioned incorrectly. Tongue retraining involves gently massaging your baby’s tongue to help it find the correct position.
You can also use a specialized device which is designed to help babies reposition their tongue and promote nasal breathing.
Saline Drops
Saline drops can help to clear your baby’s nasal passages and make it easier for them to breathe through their nose. Simply place a few drops in each nostril before bedtime. We recommend these ones, which are gentle and safe for babies.
Little Remedies Sterile Saline Nasal Mist | Safe for Newborns | 3...
- Relieves runny, stuffy, dry, or crusty noses
- Flushes and removes mucus from little noses to help little ones breathe easy; safely moisturizes
- Safe for newborns; drug-free, no side effects
- Use as often as necessary to keep baby's nose clear and moisturized
- Relieves runny, stuffy, dry, or crusty noses
- Flushes and removes mucus from little noses to help little ones breathe easy; safely moisturizes
- Safe for newborns; drug-free, no side effects
- Use as often as necessary to keep baby's nose clear and moisturized
- 3 Fl Oz (50% More)
Mouthwash
Some babies sleep with their mouths open because of bad breath or a dry mouth. Using a mouthwash specifically designed for babies can help to freshen their breath and keep their mouth moist.
We recommend these ones, which are safe for babies and can help relieve dry mouth.
Baby Orajel Orajel Baby Daytime and Nighttime Non-Medicated Cooling Gels for Teething
- Benzocaine Free
- Instant Cooling Sensation
- For Babies 3+ Months
- Free of Artificial Colors
- Sugar Free, Gluten Free, Dairy Free
- Benzocaine Free
- Instant Cooling Sensation
- For Babies 3+ Months
- Free of Artificial Colors
- Sugar Free, Gluten Free, Dairy Free
Consult your Pediatrician
If your baby continues to sleep with their mouth open, despite trying the above tips, it’s important to consult your pediatrician. They can perform a physical exam and may recommend additional tests or treatments to help your baby breathe more easily while sleeping.
Oral Motor Exercises
Oral motor exercises can help to strengthen the muscles in your baby’s mouth and promote nasal breathing. Simple exercises like blowing bubbles or blowing up a balloon can be a fun way to engage your baby’s mouth muscles.
You can also use specialized products like these, which is a vibrating tool that can be used to stimulate the mouth muscles and improve oral motor skills. However, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician or a speech therapist before starting any oral motor exercises to ensure that they are safe and appropriate for your baby.
ARKs Preefer Tip for the Z-Vibe for Sensory Oral Motor Stimulation
- Made in the USA!
- Specially designed by a speech and feeding therapist for sensory oral motor stimulation
- Cylindrical shape is perfect for when a "rolling" action is desired - roll it across the lips for input to the lips
- Made in the USA!
- Specially designed by a speech and feeding therapist for sensory oral motor stimulation
- Cylindrical shape is perfect for when a "rolling" action is desired - roll it across the lips for input to the lips
- inside the cheeks for cheek awareness
- across the tongue to "wake up" the tongue
Here are some frequently asked questions about how to stop a baby from sleeping with their mouth open:
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Why is my baby sleeping with his mouth open?
There are several reasons why babies may sleep with their mouth open, including nasal congestion or obstruction, sleep apnea, or habit. If your baby is consistently sleeping with their mouth open and experiencing other symptoms like snoring or dry mouth, it’s worth talking to your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical issues.
Is it safe for my baby to sleep with their mouth open?
It’s natural for babies to breathe through their mouth, especially when they are congested or sleeping deeply. However, if your baby is consistently sleeping with their mouth open and experiencing other symptoms like snoring or dry mouth, it’s worth taking steps to address the issue to promote better sleep and overall health.
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What to do if your child sleeps with mouth open?
If your child sleeps with their mouth open, there are a few things you can do to help them:
- Check for congestion: If your child has a cold or is congested, they may be more likely to sleep with their mouth open. Clearing their nasal passages with saline drops or a bulb syringe may help.
- Use a humidifier: A humidifier can help keep the air moist, which can prevent the mouth and throat from drying out. This can reduce the risk of tooth decay and other oral health problems.
- Encourage hydration: Make sure your child is drinking enough fluids during the day. This can help prevent dehydration, which can contribute to dry mouth.
- Monitor for snoring: If your child is consistently sleeping with their mouth open and snoring, it may be a sign of sleep apnea or another sleep-related breathing disorder. Talk to your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
- Consider orthodontic treatment: If your child is sleeping with their mouth open because of a misaligned bite or other orthodontic issue, orthodontic treatment may be necessary. Talk to your child’s dentist or orthodontist to learn more.
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How can I help my baby breathe through their nose while they sleep?
There are several things you can do to help your baby breathe through their nose while they sleep, including using a humidifier, elevating their head, using nasal saline drops or a nasal aspirator, and using mouth tape or pacifiers to encourage nasal breathing. It’s important to follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully and consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
Also Read – 20 Home Remedies For Cold & Cough
Can mouth tape be dangerous for my baby?
Mouth tape can be a safe and effective way to encourage nasal breathing in babies, as long as it’s used properly. It’s important to use tape that is specifically designed for babies and to apply it gently to avoid any irritation or discomfort. If you have any concerns, talk to your pediatrician before using mouth tape.
What should I do if my baby is still sleeping with their mouth open after trying these methods?
If your baby is still sleeping with their mouth open after trying these methods, it’s worth talking to your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical issues or to get additional guidance on how to address the issue. They may recommend additional treatments or tests if necessary.
Should I stop my baby from mouth breathing?
If your baby is mouth breathing, it is important to determine the cause of the mouth breathing before deciding whether or not to stop it.
Mouth breathing can occur for a variety of reasons, including nasal congestion, allergies, structural abnormalities, or sleep apnea. If the mouth breathing is due to a medical condition such as allergies or sleep apnea, it is important to address the underlying condition to help prevent further health problems. In such cases, medical treatment may be necessary.
If the mouth breathing is due to a habit, such as sleeping with the mouth open, it may not necessarily be harmful. However, it is still important to monitor your baby’s oral health and to take steps to prevent dry mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and other oral health problems.
Can oral motor exercises help my baby breathe through their nose?
Yes, oral motor exercises can help to strengthen the muscles in your baby’s mouth and promote nasal breathing. Simple exercises like blowing bubbles or using a vibrating tool like the Ark’s Z-Vibe can be effective. However, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician or a speech therapist before starting any oral motor exercises to ensure that they are safe and appropriate for your baby.
When should I be concerned about my baby sleeping with their mouth open?
If your baby is consistently sleeping with their mouth open and experiencing other symptoms like snoring or dry mouth, it’s worth talking to your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical issues or to get additional guidance on how to address the issue. Additionally, if your baby is having difficulty breathing or seems to be struggling to get enough air, seek medical attention immediately.
Can changing my baby’s sleeping position help with mouth breathing?
Yes, changing your baby’s sleeping position can help with mouth breathing. Elevating their head slightly with a pillow or using a wedge can help to open up their airways and promote nasal breathing. However, it’s important to follow safe sleeping guidelines and consult with your pediatrician before making any changes to your baby’s sleeping position.
Also Read – Sleeping Positions for Babies with Blocked Nose: Tips for Clearing Congestion
Can allergies or other medical conditions cause my baby to sleep with their mouth open?
Yes, allergies and other medical conditions like enlarged tonsils or adenoids can cause your baby to sleep with their mouth open. If you suspect that your baby may have allergies or another medical condition, talk to your pediatrician to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Can a pacifier help my baby breathe through their nose?
Yes, using a pacifier can help to promote nasal breathing and reduce mouth breathing in babies. However, it’s important to choose a pacifier that is the right size for your baby’s age and to use it safely and appropriately. Avoid putting anything else in your baby’s mouth while they sleep, like bottle nipples or toys, as this can increase the risk of choking.
How can I encourage my baby to breathe through their nose during the day?
Encouraging your baby to breathe through their nose during the day can help to reinforce good breathing habits and reduce mouth breathing at night. Some things you can try include using a saline nasal spray or drops to clear their nasal passages, encouraging them to blow their nose gently, and doing oral motor exercises like blowing bubbles or using a vibrating tool like the Ark’s Z-Vibe. Additionally, make sure that your baby is well-hydrated and avoiding any allergens or irritants that may be affecting their breathing.
Are there any dietary changes I can make to help with mouth breathing in my baby?
While there is no specific diet that can cure mouth breathing in babies, ensuring that your baby is getting a balanced and healthy diet can help to support their overall health and promote good breathing habits. Make sure that your baby is getting enough fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated, and avoid giving them foods that may cause congestion or irritation, like dairy or spicy foods.
Can tongue-tie cause mouth breathing in babies?
Yes, tongue-tie can contribute to mouth breathing in babies by restricting their ability to breathe through their nose and promoting mouth breathing. If you suspect that your baby may have tongue-tie, talk to your pediatrician to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
How can I tell if my baby is sleeping with their mouth open?
You can tell if your baby is sleeping with their mouth open by observing their breathing patterns while they sleep. If your baby is breathing through their mouth, you may notice that their mouth is open and that their breathing is louder or more labored than usual. Additionally, you may notice that their lips and mouth are dry or that they are snoring.
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Are there any long-term consequences of mouth breathing in babies?
Consistent mouth breathing in babies can have long-term consequences on their dental health, facial development, and overall health. Mouth breathing can cause the teeth to shift or become misaligned, and can also affect the development of the jaw and facial bones.
Additionally, mouth breathing can increase the risk of infections and sleep apnea. If you are concerned about your baby’s mouth breathing, talk to your pediatrician to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
In conclusion, helping your baby to breathe through their nose instead of their mouth can have a positive impact on their overall health and well-being. By following these tips and consulting with your pediatrician as needed, you can help your baby to develop good breathing habits and reduce their risk of long-term consequences associated with mouth breathing. Remember, a good night’s sleep starts with healthy breathing, so don’t hesitate to take action to help your little one breathe easy and sleep soundly.
