I am a mouth breather and I know it is not a good thing in regards to many things, like my gums, etc. but how?

Question

do I keep my mouth closed, especially when sleeping-it just drops open. I even tried scotch tape, but it didn't work.

Answer 1

Nose hairs act as a filter. Mouth breathers tend to not use their diaphragms effectively and have poor gas exchange in lungs. They also tend to have a forward head posture that leads to muscle imbalance and possible injuries. Why wouldn't scotch tape work? It will keep your mouth closed. You may need to see a doctor if you are having difficulty breathing through your nose.
And yes, it affects your teeth and gums, both because of the dryness and bacteria that enter.

Answer 2

Im a mouth breather always have been. I have sleep apnea. My mouth is wide open when i sleep. As mouth breathers we have to make sure we keep a piece of gum or some type of breath mint in our mouth to keep the breath fresh. I have good, clean, straight teeth. Breathing with your mouth open has no affect on your gums. Being a mouth breather is not a bad thing but my problem is i tend to not notice and breathe a little on the loud side so i often have to catch myself and control my breathing. Im a dental hygiene student and never once did i read or was told sleeping with your mouth open affected your mouth in a negative way. you have nothing to worry about.