Cracks in the corners of the mouth, medically known as angular cheilitis, can be painful, irritating, and sometimes indicative of an underlying health issue. This common condition affects individuals of all ages and can arise from nutritional deficiencies, infections, excessive saliva, or environmental factors.

If you frequently experience splitting at the corners of your mouth, it is essential to understand the root causes, effective treatments, and preventive measures to maintain good oral health.

In this professional guide, we will explore:

✔ What causes cracked mouth corners?
✔ How to effectively treat angular cheilitis
✔ Ways to prevent recurrence and maintain healthy lips

Let’s delve deeper into this condition and how you can manage it effectively.

What Causes Cracked Mouth Corners?

Splitting or soreness at the corners of the mouth can result from a combination of factors, including environmental stress, infections, and systemic health conditions.

1. Nutritional Deficiencies

A lack of certain vitamins and minerals can weaken the skin, making it more susceptible to cracking and infections. Key deficiencies linked to angular cheilitis include:

• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) Deficiency – Can cause redness, inflammation, and cracked lips.
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency – Often linked to pale skin, mouth ulcers, and chronic soreness.
• Iron Deficiency Anaemia – Can lead to pale mucous membranes, delayed healing, and increased risk of infections.
• Zinc Deficiency – Affects immune function and wound healing, making the mouth more prone to irritation.

📌 Evidence-Based Insight:
The NHS recommends a balanced diet with foods rich in B vitamins, iron, and zinc to support healthy skin and mucosal integrity [NHS UK].

✔ Solution:

• Consume leafy greens, dairy, lean meats, fish, nuts, and whole grains.
• If a deficiency is suspected, consult a GP or dentist for a blood test and appropriate supplementation.

2. Fungal or Bacterial Infections

A leading cause of angular cheilitis is fungal infection, particularly by Candida albicans, which thrives in moist areas of the mouth.

Common symptoms of fungal angular cheilitis include:

• Red, swollen, or cracked corners of the mouth
• Persistent irritation despite using lip balm
• White patches or crusting in the corners

Bacterial infections, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus, can also contribute to painful mouth corner cracks and may require antibacterial treatment.

📌 Evidence-Based Insight:
A study in the British Journal of Dermatology highlights that immunocompromised individuals or those with poorly controlled diabetes are at greater risk of fungal angular cheilitis [BJD].

✔ Solution:

• Apply antifungal creams such as clotrimazole or miconazole (available over the counter in the UK).
• If bacterial infection is suspected, a topical antibacterial cream like fusidic acid may be required—consult a healthcare professional.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent overgrowth of microbes.

3. Environmental Factors & Weather Conditions

Cold, windy, or dry weather can strip moisture from the lips, leading to irritation and cracking.

✔ Solution:

• Apply a moisturising lip balm with SPF (e.g., NHS-recommended petroleum jelly-based products).
• Avoid frequent lip licking, as it worsens dryness and irritation.
• Stay hydrated—dehydration exacerbates lip dryness and cracking.

4. Excessive Saliva & Lip Licking Habit

People who frequently lick their lips or have excess saliva accumulation (e.g., due to braces or dentures) are more likely to develop angular cheilitis.

✔ Solution:

• Avoid habitual lip licking—opt for moisturising lip balms instead.
• If drooling in sleep is a concern, adjusting sleep posture or using an orthodontic wax for braces may help.

5. Ill-Fitting Dentures & Poor Oral Hygiene

Wearing dentures that do not fit well can lead to excessive saliva buildup, increasing the risk of fungal infections.

📌 Evidence-Based Insight:
According to the British Dental Association (BDA), poorly fitted dentures can alter the mouth’s microbiome, predisposing individuals to conditions like angular cheilitis [BDA].

✔ Solution:

• Ensure dentures fit properly and are cleaned daily.
• Use antifungal mouthwashes if necessary.
• Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor oral health.

Effective Treatments for Cracked Mouth Corners

1. Medical Treatments

💊 Antifungal creams (for fungal infections) – Clotrimazole, Miconazole
💊 Antibacterial ointments (for bacterial infections) – Fusidic acid, Mupirocin
💊 Hydrocortisone creams (for severe inflammation)
💊 Vitamin B and iron supplements (for deficiencies)

2. Home Remedies

✅ Coconut oil – Natural antifungal and moisturiser
✅ Petroleum jelly – Seals moisture, prevents further irritation
✅ Aloe vera gel – Soothes inflammation and accelerates healing
✅ Honey – Contains antimicrobial properties

How to Prevent Cracked Mouth Corners

✔ Stay Hydrated – Aim for 6-8 glasses of water daily.
✔ Boost Your Diet – Consume iron, B vitamins, and zinc-rich foods.
✔ Protect Your Lips – Apply lip balm with SPF.
✔ Improve Oral Hygiene – Brush and floss daily, and ensure dentures fit correctly.
✔ Avoid Lip Licking – Instead, apply a hydrating lip balm when lips feel dry.

When to See a Doctor

Consult a GP or dentist if:
❌ The cracks persist for more than two weeks despite treatment.
❌ You notice redness, pus, or worsening pain.
❌ Over-the-counter creams fail to resolve the condition.
❌ You experience other symptoms like extreme fatigue, which may suggest an underlying health issue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does angular cheilitis take to heal?

With proper treatment, mild cases heal within 1-2 weeks, while severe cases may take 3-4 weeks.

2. Can dehydration cause cracked mouth corners?

Yes. Dehydration can lead to dry, chapped lips, increasing susceptibility to cracks and infections.

3. Is angular cheilitis contagious?

Not inherently. However, fungal or bacterial infections associated with it can spread through shared utensils or lip products.

4. Does vitamin B12 deficiency cause cracked mouth corners?

Yes. Vitamin B12 is essential for healthy skin and mucosa, and its deficiency can lead to painful lip cracks and mouth ulcers.

5. What is the best cream for cracked mouth corners?

For fungal infections, use clotrimazole or miconazole. For bacterial infections, fusidic acid is recommended.

Final Thoughts

Angular cheilitis is a common but manageable condition. By identifying the cause and using the right treatment, you can heal cracked mouth corners quickly and prevent future occurrences. If symptoms persist, consult a dentist or GP for professional assessment.