Angular cheilitis is a condition that causes sores to appear at the corners of the mouth. These sores can cause discomfort and pain when opening the mouth to speak or eat.
It can also cause redness and flaking at the corners of the mouth. Angular cheilitis, also known as perleche, can be caused by the overgrowth of fungi or bacteria in the mouth.
Saliva buildup from poor dental alignment or dentures can contribute to this overgrowth. A dentist can confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatment, usually with antimicrobial and moisturizing creams or ointments.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of angular cheilitis are:
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Sores at the corners of the mouth
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Redness and flaking at the corners of the mouth
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Pain when opening the mouth to speak, yawn, or eat
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Mouth swelling, in some cases
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Dryness and small cracks at the corners of the mouth
Eating or drinking foods that are very acidic or salty can make symptoms worse.
Confirming a diagnosis
Angular cheilitis should be diagnosed by a dentist or dermatologist based on the person’s signs and symptoms.
In addition, the doctor or dentist may recommend tests to identify the cause of angular cheilitis. These may include an analysis of the sore, saliva testing, and blood tests.
Possible causes
The main causes of angular cheilitis are:
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Fungal infection, mainly Candida species
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Bacterial infection, mainly Staphylococcus aureus
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Viral infection, mainly herpes virus
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Saliva buildup in the corners of the mouth, mainly due to poor dental alignment or the use of dentures or orthodontic appliances
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Poor oral hygiene habits
In addition, the risk of angular cheilitis is higher in people with iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12 deficiency, or in people with a weakened immune system due to chronic diseases.
Is it contagious?
Because angular cheilitis is mainly associated with fungal growth, it may be transmitted from one person to another through kissing or sharing personal items, such as cups and utensils.
Angular cheilitis treatment
Treatment for angular cheilitis should be guided by a dentist or dermatologist and aims to treat the sores and address the underlying cause.
Topical treatments, such as antifungal or antibiotic creams or ointments, may be recommended depending on the cause and should be applied directly to the affected areas. Moisturizing products may also help support healing.
Good oral hygiene is also important. According to the American Dental Association, this includes brushing the teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Dental floss and mouthwash may also be recommended as part of a healthy oral care routine.
Keeping the corners of the mouth clean and dry is essential to help prevent saliva buildup and reduce the risk of recurrence.