Welcome @bankerman, It can be concerning having the crusty buildup in the nose. I've battled with it for years and it was worse in the winter. I finally got an appointment a few years ago with a Rochester Mayo ENT who prescribed some proprietary nasal spray that helped me with nasal breathing. I used it for about 3 months along with a twice daily nasal rinse. After I stopped the nasal spray I continued with the morning and evening nasal rinse which really helped. About six months or so ago I started using a SinuSonic breathing device after reading some of the research and it has helped me. It's also fairly inexpensive and easier than the twice daily nasal rinse. I also Ayr nasal gel to rub the inside of my nose when it is really dry.

-- The SinuSonic: reducing nasal congestion with acoustic vibration and oscillating expiratory pressure:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6718060/.
Have you discussed your concerns with your doctor or an ENT?