Buteyko breathing teaches children to breathe through the nose rather than the mouth. Most of us assume breathing needs no attention, yet the act of breathing is an art that shapes health.
Where the method came from
The Buteyko method originated in Russia. It then travelled across much of the world, teaching correct breathing technique.
For children the benefit is structural. Correct breathing allows normal jaw growth, and therefore better alignment of the teeth.
Breathing re-education
The modern term is breathing re-education, because the work extends into general health and lifestyle. Six major exercises form the core of the method.
These can be adopted as a lifestyle by adults as well as children. Slow inhalation, prolonged exhalation and then a pause make up the essential rhythm.
Why carbon dioxide matters
Slow breathing keeps the body increasingly chemosensitive to carbon dioxide. That sensitivity is desirable, since it increases oxygenation of the blood cells.
A well-breathed body is healthy and active. Likewise, a well-breathed mind is more alert and focused.
The link to jaw growth
Buteyko breathing places strong emphasis on nasal breathing. Once nasal breathing is restored, the tongue returns to its correct position in the roof of the mouth.
That position stabilises upper jaw growth. Consequently crowding and restricted jaw development become less likely, as explained in how breathing affects teeth.
Where it fits clinically
Breathing re-education also shapes how a dentist practises. Within a functional approach, Myobrace myofunctional therapy is far better supported when breathing exercises run alongside it.
Better technique strengthens the facial and oral muscles. As a result, the dentition stays more balanced and better aligned. Wider context sits in airway centric dentistry. Guidance on children’s general oral health is published by the NHS advice on children’s teeth.
Ask about breathing training in Dubai
If your child snores or breathes through the mouth, breathing re-education is worth discussing. Call +971 50 682 3462 or book an appointment with Dr. Imneet Madan in Dubai.
