Infants are obligate nasal breathers for the first several months of life. This means their primary method of respiration is through the nose. Mouth breathing in newborns and very young infants is generally observed only when the nasal passages are blocked, such as during a cold, or when they are crying vigorously. It’s not typically a voluntary or preferred method of breathing at this early stage.
The natural inclination towards nasal breathing in babies offers several advantages. It helps to filter, warm, and humidify the air before it reaches the lungs, providing protection against irritants and infections. Nasal breathing also facilitates proper development of the facial structure and jaw. Deviations from this natural pattern can potentially lead to issues such as dry mouth, increased risk of upper respiratory infections, and altered facial growth patterns over time.