Many people could suffer from problems with mouth breathing.

A new study has shown that a condition known as mouth breathing could be harmful to the oral health of sufferers.

Carried out by researchers in the US, the study showed the problem can result in crooked tooth development in children, as their bite can become misaligned by having their mouth open all the time while they sleep.

In addition, gingivitis, high blood pressure and a number of other ailments are associated with the illness, something that can only be treated through surgery.

“Allergies can cause upper airway obstruction, or mouth breathing, in patients. Almost every family has someone with mouth breathing problems,” commented Dr Yosh Jefferson, a dental professional from New Jersey.

Meanwhile, it has recently been reported that a former dentist is continuing to campaign against jaw surgery for children.

John Mew, an 81-year-old former dental professional, has said he will continue to lobby the industry to stop resorting to unnecessary surgery for young people with jaw problems.