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

https://alternix.com/blogs/news/quitting-smoking-can-nicotine-pouches-help-you-kick-the-habit
https://alternix.com/blogs/news/the-best-nicotine-pouch-brands
https://alternix.com/blogs/news/understanding-nicotine-strengths-in-pouches
https://alternix.com/blogs/news/nicotine-pouches-vs-snus-difference-between-snus-and-nicotine-pouches
https://alternix.com/blogs/news/the-benefits-of-nicotine-pouches
https://alternix.com/blogs/news/how-to-use-a-nicotine-pouch
https://alternix.com/blogs/news/what-are-nicotine-pouches

Lip Data Sources

Reference URL
Glossary https://www.alternix.com/blogs/glossary-of-terms/lip
Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lip
Wikidata https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q15173
Knowledge Graph https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/m/0hhpx91