Angular cheilitis is a skin infection that causes cracking and soreness at the corners ('angles') of your mouth. The condition is usually caused by a build-up of the yeast Candida albicans, and symptoms include a burning sensation and redness around the mouth. If you wear dentures, chances are that these are causing the yeast build-up, because dentures often have insufficient support for the corners of your mouth. Read on for tips on how to cure this pesky condition and prevent it from reoccurring.
Home and pharmacy remedies
Most cases of angular cheilitis will clear up on their own after a few weeks. However, for those who don't wish to put up with the discomfort for that long, there are a few inexpensive home and over-the-counter remedies that you can try.
Applying topical creams and balms such as aloe vera gel and petroleum jelly can help reduce the burning sensation associated with angular cheilitis. However, the use of balms will only provide temporary relief from the symptoms of the condition and is not a permanent cure if the underlying cause is not treated.
Anti-fungal creams such as nystatin (branded as Mycostatin) can be used to address the yeast build-up causing your angular cheilitis. Generally, using an anti-fungal cream will resolve the symptoms of your infection within two weeks, but again, the issue is likely to recur if your dentures are not adjusted.
When to see your doctor
The Charles Clifford Dental Hospital recommends that a patient with stubborn angular cheilitis visits their doctor if symptoms have not cleared up within two weeks. Most cases of angular cheilitis are caused by a yeast infection, but other factors, such as staphylococcus (bacteria) infection or vitamin B12 deficiency, may be present. Your doctor can conduct mouth swabs and blood tests to determine the exact cause. If it is confirmed that C. albicans is indeed the culprit, then your doctor can prescribe stronger anti-fungal medication than what can be bought over-the-counter.
Patients should also see a doctor if their symptoms are especially severe, or worsen during the course of treatment. Signs of a severe infection include blisters or strong pain when opening your mouth.
Preventing a relapse
As previously outlined, the yeast build-up that causes cases of angular cheilitis in people with dentures is usually due to poor-fitting dentures that do not support the corners of the mouth. While anti-fungal creams can temporarily relieve symptoms, chances are that if you do not have your dentures adjusted, the yeast build-up will occur again.
Try to avoid licking your lips too frequently, and, as always, be sure to clean your dentures every night to stop infection in its tracks.
Share21 September 2016
As a mother, I've seen my kids' faces light up after they've lost a tooth – oh, the excitement they feel about getting their grown up teeth! However, I've also seen my kids become extremely scared and anxious after having an adult tooth knocked out. If you're a mom or a dad with a busy kid, chances are you might see a tooth knocked out in a skateboarding accident or a sport pile-up. This blog is dedicated to those moments when you could lose your wits, and it's here to ensure you don't. I am collecting and curating the best information about kids and dental emergencies here so that you will have it when you need it. Best of luck with your kids' smiles!
