Can Drooling Lead to Angular Cheilitis?

When your mouth drools, especially if it happens a lot on one side, the extra saliva can keep the skin around the corners of your mouth very moist. This constant moisture can soften the skin until it becomes more sensitive and may crack or peel. The breakdown of the skin barrier can make it easier for germs, like bacteria or yeast, to cause an infection. This condition, known as angular cheilitis, shows up as red, sore, and sometimes painful cracks at the corners of the mouth. A case study of burning mouth syndrome mentioned that people with issues like drooling can also develop angular cheilitis because of the irritation from the wet environment. Keeping the area dry and protected helps prevent the skin from becoming irritated and infected. If you experience drooling that leads to discomfort or the skin around your mouth becoming sore, it might be helpful to speak with a healthcare provider for proper treatment and advice.