You have probably seen mouth taping online as a “hack” for better nasal breathing at night. For some adults, nasal breathing can feel more comfortable and reduce dryness. But mouth taping is not right for everyone, and it is not something to try on a child without professional guidance. It should never replace a proper evaluation for snoring or sleep apnea.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ronnel Azizollahi
SCO Board Certified Orthodontist. Double graduate of UC San Francisco (dental school and orthodontic residency).
Reviewed: July 22, 2026 · Read Dr. Azizollahi’s bio
We screen for signs of airway-related concerns as part of an orthodontic exam. We do not diagnose sleep apnea. A diagnosis of sleep apnea or a sleep-related breathing disorder can only be made by a physician, and it may involve an evaluation by a pediatrician, an ENT, a sleep physician, or a sleep study. We work alongside those providers, not in place of them.
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Possible benefits (for the right person)
- May encourage nasal breathing
- May reduce dry mouth
- Can build awareness of breathing habits
Note the word “may.” These are possibilities, not guarantees, and they do not apply to every person.
When mouth taping should be avoided
Do not use mouth taping if you or your child:
- Have a stuffy nose, allergies, or frequent congestion
- Snore, wake up gasping, or may have sleep apnea
- Feel anxious or uncomfortable with restricted airflow
- Are a child, unless a professional has guided the decision
Taping the mouth shut when a child cannot easily breathe through the nose can be unsafe. Mouth breathing is usually a signal that something else is going on, and covering it up does not fix the cause.
Our approach
Instead of masking the symptom, we look at why mouth breathing is happening: airway, nasal issues, habits, or jaw development. Then we recommend safer, personalized options and, when needed, connect you with your child’s physician or an ENT.
Related topics
Sources: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Policy on Obstructive Sleep Apnea; American Association of Orthodontists white paper on sleep-disordered breathing and orthodontics.
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