Cracked corners of the mouth, medically known as angular cheilitis, are a common and uncomfortable issue. Understanding their causes and treatments can provide relief and maintain healthy skin. This article covers the condition, its triggers, treatments, and prevention.
What is Angular Cheilitis?
Angular cheilitis is an inflammatory skin condition affecting the corners of your mouth. It manifests as redness, swelling, and cracking, often with crusting and pain. The affected area can also feel itchy or have a burning sensation. This condition can appear on one side or, more commonly, affect both corners simultaneously.
Why Your Mouth Corners Crack
Cracked mouth corners often begin with saliva pooling at the mouth’s angles. Prolonged exposure to saliva irritates and breaks down the skin’s barrier. This compromised skin then becomes susceptible to infections, frequently involving fungi like Candida albicans. Bacterial infections with species such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus may also occur.
Various factors can contribute to this initial dryness and cracking, including repetitive behaviors like chronic lip licking, thumb-sucking, or pacifier use, particularly in children. Ill-fitting dentures or misaligned teeth can also cause saliva to pool, creating a moist environment conducive to irritation. Nutritional deficiencies, such as low levels of iron, zinc, or B vitamins, are associated with angular cheilitis. Certain medical conditions like diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, or a weakened immune system can increase susceptibility. Allergies to substances in toothpaste, lip products, or other oral hygiene items, as well as some medications like retinoids, may also act as irritants.
Treating Cracked Mouth Corners
Treating cracked mouth corners often involves home care and, if needed, medical intervention, depending on the underlying cause. For simple dryness and inflammation, applying an emollient ointment or petroleum jelly frequently can help protect the area from moisture and allow the skin to heal. Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding known irritants like harsh toothpastes or spicy foods can also support recovery.
If an infection is present, a healthcare provider may prescribe specific medications. Antifungal creams are often used if a yeast infection is suspected. For bacterial infections, topical or oral antibiotics might be recommended. Sometimes, a topical steroid ointment may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain.
If nutritional deficiencies are identified, dietary changes or supplements, such as iron or B vitamin supplements, can help correct the underlying issue. It is advisable to consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond two weeks, worsen, show signs of severe infection, or recur frequently, as these situations may require a professional diagnosis and targeted treatment.
Preventing Future Cracks
Preventing cracked mouth corners involves consistent care and addressing predisposing factors. Managing saliva is important; this includes avoiding frequent lip licking and using barrier creams like petroleum jelly to protect the skin from excessive moisture. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins can help prevent deficiencies that contribute to the condition.
Regular lip care, such as moisturizing the lips and protecting them from environmental elements like sun or extreme cold, helps maintain skin integrity. For individuals with dentures, ensuring they fit properly can reduce saliva pooling at the mouth corners. Identifying and avoiding personal irritants in oral hygiene products or cosmetics also plays a role in prevention. Maintaining good overall oral hygiene and managing chronic conditions like diabetes through appropriate diet and exercise can further reduce the risk of future cracks.