Prevalence of lip incompetence in 6 to 12 year-old children visiting university hospital: A retrospective study

Background: Lip competence, the natural ability of the lips to close at rest, is crucial for maintaining oral health, ensuring proper craniofacial development, and influencing aesthetics. Lip incompetence, defined as the inability to achieve lip closure without excessive muscle effort, is associated with developmental and functional concerns, such as malocclusion, altered facial growth, and oral dysfunctions. However, the prevalence and influencing factors in children remain underexplored. Aim: To determine the prevalence of lip incompetence in children aged 6–12 years visiting a private dental college and hospital, analyzing its relationship with age and gender to inform early intervention strategies. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of 1,635 orthodontic diagnostic records was conducted at the Department of Pedodontics in a Private Dental College and Hospital, over a 10-year period (2010–2020). Data on age, gender, and lip competence status were analyzed using SPSS software. Chi-square tests assessed the relationship between demographic variables and lip competence. Results: The majority of children (97.69%) exhibited lip competence, with only 0.85% classified as incompetent and 1.47% as potentially competent. A significant association was observed between age and lip competence (p < 0.05), with younger children showing higher prevalence. Gender showed no significant influence (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Lip incompetence is rare but clinically significant. Early identification and intervention, especially in older children, are essential to mitigate potential developmental impacts. Future research should explore longitudinal trends and associated factors.