Tonsils and adenoids are part of the immune system. Enlarged tonsils and adenoids reduce or prevent nasal breathing. Breathing through the nose is preferable from a health perspective as it cleanses and humidifies the air before it passes through the airway. This significantly lessens the likelihood of illness and infections because the inhaled air is passed through the body’s natural filtration system.
Enlarged tonsils can result in chronic open mouth posture, halitosis, mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, and sleep-disordered breathing. Furthermore, they can lead to dental misalignment and impact the development of the jaw and facial structure. Similarly, enlarged adenoids can exacerbate issues with nasal breathing, chronic open mouth posture, sleep disturbances, and ear infections.