Lip

Lip Structure and Anatomy

• Upper and lower lips are referred to as labium superius oris and labium inferius oris, respectively.
• The juncture where the lips meet the surrounding skin is the vermilion border.
• The red area within the borders is called the vermilion zone.
• The vermilion border of the upper lip is known as the Cupids bow.
• The fleshy protuberance in the center of the upper lip is called the tubercle.
• The skin of the lips is stratified squamous epithelium.
• The mucous membrane of the lips is highly sensitive.
• The frenulum labii inferioris is the frenulum of the lower lip.
• The frenulum labii superioris is the frenulum of the upper lip.
• The infraorbital nerve supplies the upper lip and the skin of the face between the upper lip and the lower eyelid.
• The mental nerve supplies the lower lip and labial gingiva.
• The nerves of the lips are derived from the trigeminal nerve.
• The facial artery supplies both lips through its superior and inferior labial branches.
• The branches of the facial artery bifurcate and anastomose with their companion branches.
• The muscles of the lips are considered part of the muscles of facial expression.
• All muscles of facial expression are derived from the mesoderm of the second pharyngeal arch.
• The muscles of facial expression are supplied by the facial nerve.

Lip Function and Articulation

• The lips are important for creating different sounds in speech.
• They enable whistling and playing wind instruments.
• Lip reading can aid in understanding speech for individuals with hearing loss.
• Visual cues from the lips affect the perception of heard sounds.
• The lips are involved in the McGurk Effect.
• Lips are used for eating functions, closing the mouth airtight, and increasing suction.

Lip Sensitivity and Tactile Function

• The lips have many nerve endings and are part of the tactile senses.
• Lips are sensitive to touch, warmth, and cold.
• Lips aid in exploring unknown objects, especially for babies and toddlers.

Lips in Society and Culture

• Lips are viewed as symbols of sensuality and sexuality.
• In many cultures, a woman's lips are associated with the vulva and considered a secondary sexual organ.
• Lips are linked to the symbolism of the mouth as the orifice for food intake.
• Lip piercing and augmentation are cosmetic practices.
• Lip products include lipstick, lip gloss, and lip balm.

Clinical Significance and Lip Health

• Lips can show symptoms of diseases such as cyanosis, cheilitis, and carcinoma.
• Blue lips can indicate reduced oxygen in the blood.
• Inflammation of the lips can result in chapped lips, angular cheilitis, or cold sores.
• Cleft lip is a treatable birth defect.
• Carcinoma at the lips is primarily caused by tobacco use and sun exposure.
• Proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is important for lip health.
• Lip care products, such as lip balms or moisturizers, can help prevent dryness and cracking.
• Protecting the lips from excessive sun exposure can help prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of lip cancer.
• Maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can contribute to healthy lips.
• Regular dental check-ups can help identify any potential issues with the lips or oral cavity.

Lip Mentions

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Lip Data Sources