Effect of Pranayamic Breathing and Tongue Exercises on Oral Microbiota in Children

This study is designed to investigate the effects of pranayamic breathing techniques, tongue exercises, and tongue cleaning on oral microbiota in children aged 7-12 years. Participants will be classified based on their breathing patterns as mouth breathers or nasal breathers. Each group will undergo a structured intervention program that includes specific breathing techniques, tongue exercises, and, in selected subgroups, tongue cleaning over a defined period.

Saliva samples will be collected from all participants before and after the intervention. These samples will be analyzed using microbiological methods to evaluate changes in oral microbiota composition. The study aims to compare the microbiological outcomes between different breathing patterns and to assess the potential benefits of the applied interventions.

Informed consent will be obtained from all participants and their legal guardians prior to participation. All collected samples and data will be anonymized to ensure participant confidentiality.

This research is expected to provide insights into the relationship between breathing habits, oral functions, tongue hygiene practices, and oral microbial balance in children. The findings may contribute to preventive and therapeutic approaches in pediatric dentistry, particularly in managing the effects of mouth breathing on oral health.

Inclusion criteria

• Children aged 7-12 years with either mouth breathing or nasal breathing patterns
• Willingness of both the child and their legal guardian to participate in the study
• Children who are cooperative and able to comply with the exercise protocol

Exclusion criteria

• Refusal of the child or legal guardian to participate in the study
• Presence of active dental caries or periodontal disease
• Presence of any systemic disease or regular medication use
• Use of orthodontic appliances
• Use of antibiotics or probiotics within the last 4 weeks