A condition where there are deep cracks and splits at the corners of the mouth. If this is severe, the splits can bleed when the mouth is openned and shallow ulcers or a crust may form.

Causes

This is most often caused by an infection, usually a fungal infection, but it also can be viral or bacterial. A vitamin B deficiency and the over-closure of the mouth of someone without teeth can also cause this as well as the licking of lips, thumb-sucking, and lip biting.

Less severe cases occur when it is quite cold (like in the winter time), and mostly happen to young children/teenagers. The child then licks their lips in an attempt to provide a temporary moment of relief. This in fact only makes it worse.

Treatment

Depending on the cause, lip lubrication, antifungal and antibiotic medication, vitamins, and dentures for a person without teeth can abate the symptoms.

For less severe cases in teenagers and young children (see above), applying Vaseline to the lips is normally very effective.