27/01/2026
π©Ί Angular Cheilitis: Causes, Signs, and Treatment
Angular cheilitis is a painful inflammation at the corners of the mouth. It causes cracking, redness, and sometimes sores where the upper and lower lips meet. Many people mistake it for simple dry lips, but medically it is often due to infection, irritation, or nutritional deficiency.
It can affect children, adults, and elderly β especially people who drool during sleep, wear dentures, or have weak immunity.
π£ What does angular cheilitis look like?
β Red, cracked skin at one or both mouth corners
β Painful splits or sores
β Swelling or crust formation
β Burning or itching sensation
β Sometimes yellowish discharge
π£ Common causes
β Fungal infection (Candida β most common)
β Bacterial infection (Staphylococcus)
β Constant moisture from saliva
β Ill-fitting dentures or braces
β Lip licking or mouth breathing
β Nutritional deficiencies (Vitamin B12, iron, folate)
β Weak immunity or diabetes
π£ Symptoms you may notice
β Pain while opening mouth
β Difficulty eating spicy or sour foods
β Bleeding cracks
β Recurrent sores at same spot
π£ Who is at higher risk
β Elderly people
β Denture users
β People with diabetes
β Vitamin B deficiency
β Children who drool
β People with weakened immunity
π£ How angular cheilitis is treated
β Antifungal creams (if fungal cause suspected)
β Antibiotic ointment (if bacterial infection present)
β Barrier creams (petroleum jelly or zinc oxide)
β Vitamin supplements if deficiency confirmed
β Denture adjustment if needed
β Keep corners dry and clean
π£ Home care tips
β Avoid licking lips
β Gently clean area twice daily
β Apply protective ointment regularly
β Drink enough water
β Maintain good oral hygiene
π£ When to see a doctor
β Not healing in 7β10 days
β Keeps coming back
β Severe pain or swelling
β Signs of infection (pus, fever)
β Suspected vitamin deficiency
Key takeaway
β Angular cheilitis is common and treatable
β Often caused by infection + moisture
β Nutritional deficiencies can play a role
β Early treatment prevents chronic cracking
β οΈ Medical Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. If mouth corner sores persist or recur frequently, consult a doctor or dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.