Treatment for angular cheilitis

Repeated saliva exposure softens the skin at the mouth angles and creates a fold that can remain damp. Yeast or bacteria may take advantage of that damaged barrier. Some episodes are also linked with poorly fitting dentures, dry mouth, eczema or nutritional deficiency.

A clinician uses the appearance, recurrence pattern and medical history to choose therapy. A swab or blood test may be considered when the diagnosis is unclear, the condition keeps returning, or a contributing problem is suspected.

Clean the corners gently, dry them after meals and cover them with a bland barrier ointment. Depending on the findings, a clinician may prescribe an antifungal or antibacterial product. A mild topical corticosteroid is sometimes paired with suitable antimicrobial treatment when inflammation is prominent, but steroid treatment alone can worsen an unrecognised infection.

Longer-term control can involve adjusting dentures, managing dry mouth, stopping an irritating product or treating a confirmed deficiency. Apply prescribed products in the stated order and complete the advised course even if tenderness improves early.

Seek prompt care for spreading warmth and redness, pus, fever, marked swelling or increasing pain. Arrange reassessment if the split is not improving with the recommended treatment, returns soon after treatment, or interferes with eating. A persistent one-sided ulcer, hard area or unexplained bleeding should also be examined.

Ask what cause the treatment targets, whether infection is suspected, and which barrier product can be used alongside the prescription. For recurring episodes, discuss denture fit, saliva control, dry mouth, eczema and whether testing for a nutritional or medical contributor is reasonable.