What is noticeable?
Cracks, redness or crusting at the mouth corners, sometimes painful.
← All explanationsAngular cheilitis
Why do the corners of the mouth keep cracking?
Angular cheilitis causes painful cracks at one or both mouth corners. Moisture, irritation and other factors often interact. Fungi or bacteria may contribute, but are not always the sole cause.
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The skin barrier is irritated
Saliva and repeated licking can soften and irritate the skin at the corners. Redness, small cracks or crusts may develop.
Several factors may contribute
Denture fit, skin conditions or certain deficiencies may play a part. A cracked corner alone does not prove vitamin deficiency.
Address the cause
Recurring or persistent cracks warrant examination. Care, denture adjustment or targeted medicines depend on the findings.
At a glance
Who should seek assessment?
Anyone with recurrent, persistent or spreading changes.
What may be checked?
Skin, oral tissues, habits and, where relevant, denture fit or suspected deficiencies.
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Often confused
Crack or blister?
A fissure is a crack. A blister is a different skin change; shape alone still does not provide a reliable self-diagnosis.
Quick answers
Is it always a fungal infection?
No. Irritation and other causes are possible; antifungal treatment is not automatically the answer.
Is it the same as a cold sore?
No. Herpes is a different condition. Similar discomfort may require different treatment.
Should I take vitamins just in case?
Not automatically. Investigate a deficiency when there is a reason to suspect one, rather than taking supplements indiscriminately.
At the practice
For your consultation
A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:
What part could irritation, oral tissues and any dentures play?
Individual findings are the basis for discussing appropriate next steps.
Repeated cracking is a reason to look for contributing factors.
Have mouth corners assessedChoose an appointment on DoctolibLearning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge
Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.
- Fissure
- A narrow split in skin or mucosal tissue.
- Cheilitis angularis
- Inflammation affecting the corners of the mouth.
- Maceration
- Softening of skin through prolonged moisture.
Know the difference
Angular cheilitis describes a finding, not automatically the organism causing it.
Sources for further learning
Sources and context
Editorial research: 23 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.