The name “lip interceptor” may refer to different devices placed between the lips and teeth. Before discussing benefits, identify the exact appliance: an oral screen and a lip bumper differ in construction and clinical evidence.
Oral screen and lip bumper: two different devices
An oral screen occupies the space between the lips or cheeks and the teeth. A lip bumper is an orthodontic appliance intended to change the lip's influence on the dental arch, with support points defined by the practitioner. The commercial name alone does not explain these features.
During consultation, ask for a demonstration of the appliance's position. Clarify whether it is fixed or removable, custom-made or prefabricated. An online photograph is not enough to choose an equivalent.
Which outcomes have been studied?
A scoping review of oral screens included five studies. It describes potential effects on the lips and arches while calling for better-quality research. It does not establish general effectiveness for every functional problem.
For lip bumpers, a systematic review of six studies reports changes in arch width and perimeter associated with tooth movements. Certainty is low to very low. Monitoring eruption of the second molars is among the reported precautions.
These results prove neither an aesthetic transformation of the face nor automatic resolution of a breathing problem. They are also not directly transferable to an appliance of another design.
Where does it fit in a child's assessment?
The practitioner examines the bite, dentition and functions before selecting an appliance. The AAPD recommends setting priorities and timing according to the diagnosis. This is particularly useful when a family reports crowding, persistent sucking and a frequently open mouth together.
Prepare observations without trying to diagnose the situation yourself: what the child does, when, what bothers them and for how long. Report existing care or appliances. These details help you ask precise questions.
Organising follow-up
Ask for written instructions on wear, cleaning, storage and appointments. Check whom to contact if the appliance deforms or irritates tissues. Do not modify it with pliers or reproduce an adjustment shown in a video.
At review, report actual wear and difficulties. Follow-up should assess the intended outcome, tolerance and continued care. A poorly tolerated appliance needs reassessment, not an improvised escalation of exercises.
Understanding the MyoForce appliances
The Myoforce appliance is a standard tongue retraining device. It must not be equated with a custom lip bumper or substituted for a device selected by the orthodontist. Its product page helps you present it to the professional and check its relevance.
For other situations, continue with the functional trainer or support for stopping thumb sucking.
Common questions
Does a lip interceptor automatically close an open bite?
No. An open bite requires diagnosis. Evidence about one appliance or combined treatment does not guarantee the result of any interceptor.
Can you buy the same appliance as another child?
Resemblance does not establish identical needs. Ask the professional caring for your child about the model and indication before choosing.
Sources and review
Guide reviewed on 1 October 2026 by Dr Vladimir Khourda. The references below concern the topics studied; they do not establish the results of a MyoForce product.