The definition of incompetent lips refers to what condition?

Incompetent lips refer specifically to the inability of the lips to close fully at rest. This condition can lead to various dental and oral health issues, such as an open bite, difficulty with speech, and even dry mouth because the protective barrier created by closed lips is compromised. When the lips can't come together properly, it can also contribute to aesthetic concerns and functional problems associated with biting and swallowing.

The other conditions described do not correlate with the definition of incompetent lips. For example, swollen and painful lips, lesions, or discoloration can result from a variety of health issues or external factors, but they do not describe the functional failure of the lips to close.