What causes angular cheilitis?

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What causes angular cheilitis?

Saliva collects at the corners of the mouth and causes dryness. Very dry skin in this area can lead to angular cheilitis. Over time, the dry skin may crack open. Sometimes bacteria or fungi get into the cracks, which can cause inflammation or an infection.

Causes of dry, cracked lip corners that can trigger angular cheilitis include:

  • Atopic dermatitis or eczema.
  • Dentures that don’t fit.
  • Drooling during sleep.
  • Fungal or yeast infections in the mouth, such as thrush.
  • Misaligned teeth.
  • Skin allergies.
  • Sucking on a thumb or a pacifier.
  • Wearing a face mask.

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