Nasal Strips: Not Just for Snoring Anymore
If you follow The Bentist online, you’ve probably seen him talking about more than just braces — like why nasal breathing is so important for your oral health. Turns out, he’s not alone. Dentists and orthodontists across the country are raising awareness about the consequences of mouth breathing, especially in kids and teens.
And here’s the twist: one of the easiest tools to encourage better breathing habits is a simple nasal strip. But not all nasal strips are created equal — and most people don’t realize the full range of benefits they offer.
Why Dentists Care About Nasal Breathing
When you breathe through your nose, the air gets filtered, humidified, and directed optimally through your airway. Mouth breathing, on the other hand, bypasses all that — drying out your mouth and increasing your risk for:
- Cavities
- Gum inflammation
- Bad breath
- Altered facial and jaw development in kids
As noted by the American Dental Association, chronic dry mouth (a common result of mouth breathing) allows bacteria to flourish and makes you more vulnerable to tooth decay and gingivitis. The Bentist often shows examples of this on his channels — explaining how encouraging nose breathing early can support proper jaw growth and reduce the need for complex orthodontic treatment later on.
How Nasal Strips Work (and Who Can Use Them)
Nasal strips are small, flexible bands placed over the bridge of the nose. When applied correctly, they physically lift and widen the nostrils — improving airflow without the need for medication or invasive devices.
They’re commonly used for:
- Reducing snoring
- Improving airflow during exercise
- Helping kids or adults transition away from mouth breathing
According to the Sleep Foundation, nasal strips can help people breathe easier through the night, and studies show they may reduce snoring caused by nasal congestion or narrow airways.
Are they safe for kids and teens?
Yes — when sized appropriately and used under adult supervision. Some brands even make child-specific nasal strips. And for teens wearing braces, nasal strips are perfectly safe — in fact, they can 1 around brackets, which reduces the risk of white spots and cavities.
Common Problems with Traditional Nasal Strips
Despite their benefits, traditional adhesive nasal strips aren’t perfect. The biggest complaints?
- They don’t open the nose wide enough
- They irritate the skin
- They fall off during sleep or workout
- They’re single-use, creating waste and extra cost
Some people (especially those with sensitive skin) experience red marks or discomfort after removal. And many users — particularly athletes or active teens — find the adhesive weakens with sweat or movement.
Why Dentists Like Intake’s Magnetic Nasal Strip
Enter Intake’s Magnetic Nasal Strip, which solves many of those common problems. Here’s what makes it different:
- Opens your nose up to 2× wider than leading adhesive strips
- No bridge adhesive — just two small tabs on the sides of your nose, minimizing irritation
- No bridge adhesive — just two small tabs on the sides of your nose, minimizing irritation
- Reusable and comes in different band sizes
- Doesn’t fall off — even during workouts or sweaty nights
Dentists like The Bentist appreciate that Intake isn’t just a snore solution — it’s a tool to train nasal breathing, which supports the work they’re doing with braces, jaw alignment, and overall airway health.
Final Thoughts: Small Tool, Big Results
Mouth breathing affects more than sleep — it impacts your teeth, your child’s jaw development, and your long-term oral health. The dental world, from trusted orthodontists to creators like The Bentist, is sounding the alarm: train your nose to do the breathing it was designed for.
And if a nasal strip can help you do that — pain-free, comfortably, and consistently — why not try one that actually works?
Ready to Breathe Better?
Visit Intake Breathing to try the magnetic nasal strip trusted by dentists, athletes, and thousands of better breathers.