There are times when it’s appropriate and even necessary to breathe through the mouth, and that’s because mouth breathing allows the individual to take in a greater volume of air. For example, when exercising, we need to keep up with the demand for oxygen by taking larger breaths through the mouth.
When the body is under distress or threatened, it switches to fight-or-flight mode, and breathing through the mouth is a function of this mode. However, breathing through the mouth while sleeping can trigger the mind to believe it is in that protective fight-or-flight state (via Transformation Nutrition).
According to Dr. Paul Henny, DDS at Dental Sleep Practice, this type of breathing can signal the brain to release adrenaline and wake us multiple times throughout the night. Individuals can wake feeling exhausted and anxious, which is why dentists like Dr. Henny have recommended mouth taping to end this cycle of waking. Dr. Henny has suggested that mouth taping can help you get deeper, more restful sleep, less grogginess when you wake up, and a reduction in feelings of anxiety.
