You may find it difficult to bring your lips together and have a mouth that is slightly open during the day or teeth that stick out severely. If this is the case, you likely have lip incompetence, which is defined as the inability to bring one’s lips together. Fortunately, orthodontists use a variety of techniques to bring back teeth that stick out.
Since each patient with lip incompetence is different, the treatment your orthodontist may recommend will depend on your age and the severity of your condition. If you have experienced lip incompetence after braces, you can count also on an orthodontist to fix this. An orthodontist will likely suggest orofacial myofunctional therapy if your lip incompetence is the result of swallowing abnormalities or improper rest posture of the tongue.
Orofacial myofunctional therapy involves easy exercises that activate certain muscles in the face. This allows other muscles to follow suit until the right coordination of the facial muscles and tongue has been achieved.
In rare cases, an orthodontist may propose surgery. It is important to correct lip incompetence as it can force your orofacial muscles to work harder than they should and lead to serious oral health problems like issues with tooth eruption, jaw function, and crooked teeth. Swallowing and breathing may be compromised as well.
Contact Gladwell Orthodontics
If you or someone you love have lip incompetence after braces, it is in your best interest to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jason Gladwell of Gladwell Orthodontics. Call our office today at 919-453-6325.
