Angular cheilitis is inflammation and painful cracks at one or both corners of the mouth. It’s often due to moisture and irritation, with yeast (Candida) or bacteria contributing.
Why it happens
- Saliva pooling from lip licking, drooling (infants, elderly), poorly fitting dentures, mouth breathing.
- Dry, chapped lips; cold weather; mask friction.
- Nutritional issues (iron, B vitamins), diabetes, skin conditions like eczema or seborrheic dermatitis.
Signs and symptoms
- Redness, fissures (cracks), soreness or burning at the corners.
- Sometimes crusting or a white film; pain when opening the mouth wide.
Home care
- Keep the area dry and protected: apply a bland barrier ointment (petrolatum or zinc oxide) several times daily and especially at night.
- Avoid lip licking and irritating products; use gentle, fragrance-free lip care.
- For denture wearers: ensure proper fit; remove and clean nightly; consider overnight soaking per dentist’s advice.
Treatment
- Antifungal cream (clotrimazole or miconazole) twice daily if yeast is suspected—often used even if not confirmed because Candida is common here.
- If very inflamed, a short course of a mild steroid + antifungal combo may be prescribed.
- If crusty/yellow or not improving, your clinician may add an antibiotic ointment or take a swab.
When to see a clinician
- If not better after 1–2 weeks of care, severe pain, bleeding, or frequent recurrences.
- If you have diabetes or immune issues.
- Consider checking for iron/B vitamin deficiency or denture fit problems if recurrent.
Prevention
- Regular lip moisturization and barrier ointment in cold/windy weather.
- Address drooling, mouth breathing, or denture issues.
- Good oral hygiene; treat nearby skin conditions (eczema/seborrhea) if present.