The habit of biting one’s lips may seem trivial or be dismissed as a response to stress or boredom. However, if done repeatedly, this behavior can negatively affect oral health, including damage to teeth and surrounding soft tissues.
Effects of Lip-Biting on Oral Health
Lip-biting, particularly of the lower lip, can cause recurrent wounds, inflammation, and impaired lip function, such as lip incompetence (the inability to close the mouth properly). Over time, this habit may also alter tooth position, especially in children whose jaws and teeth are still developing.
Continuous lip-biting may lead to lip incompetence, which in turn disrupts orofacial function, including difficulty closing the mouth fully. This was explained in research conducted by Ani Subekti, a student at FKG UGM, under the supervision of Dr. drg. Indah Titien S., S.U., Sp.KGA.(K).
The study demonstrated that the effects of lip-biting are not only localized but may also influence the overall orofacial structure and function, including tooth alignment and speech ability.
Potential Dental Damage from This Habit
- Changes in Tooth Position
Repeated pressure from the lips on the teeth can cause displacement, especially of the lower front teeth, leading to mild to moderate malocclusion. - Soft Tissue Trauma
Recurrent lip wounds may develop into chronic irritation, open sores, or even infections if left untreated. - Oral Functional Problems
Lip incompetence can affect swallowing, speech, and the ability to maintain oral moisture. - Excessive Drooling
Inability to fully close the lips can also lead to drooling, which may cause social discomfort and skin irritation around the mouth.
Clinical Solutions and Interventions
In more severe cases, dentists or orthodontic specialists may recommend using devices such as a lip bumper.
This appliance creates space between the lips and teeth, reducing lip pressure while helping train the lips to close properly.
Besides orthodontic appliances, behavioral therapy also plays a crucial role in addressing lip-biting habits, particularly when related to psychological or neurological factors, such as in cases of cerebral palsy.
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Lip-biting is more than a minor habit—it can lead to soft tissue damage, tooth misalignment, and broader orofacial functional disorders. Early detection and appropriate intervention, whether through orthodontic devices like lip bumpers or behavioral therapy, are essential to prevent long-term consequences for children’s oral health.
References
MKGI, Ani Subekti, Dr. drg. Indah Titien S., S.U., Sp.KGA.(K), Use of Lip Bumper in Children with Cerebral Palsy with Drooling, Lip Incompetence, and Habitual Lower Lip-Biting, https://journal.ugm.ac.id/mkgi/article/view/15402
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
