A small tear in the corners of the mouth can make yawning or laughing a painful affair. Where does the tear come from and what can be done to prevent it?

 

Because the mouth is used so often for talking, laughing, yawning and eating, the small wounds tear again and again and can only heal slowly. People often lick the tear with their tongue to relieve the pain, but the moisture tends to make the wound worse because the skin becomes soft and thus even more susceptible to cracking. Bacteria and fungi also colonise moist wounds.

There are various causes for cracks in the corners of the mouth: It often affects people who suffer from allergies or neurodermatitis. It can also be caused by a fungal infection or a deficiency of vitamin B2, iron or zinc.
In rare cases, the susceptibility to mouth wrinkles can have dental causes. Incorrectly fitted dentures or gaps between teeth can change the bite height, causing mouth wrinkles to form. Disease germs collect in these folds, making the skin susceptible to injury.

The sore corners of the mouth can be treated externally with zinc cream. Zinc cream keeps the wound dry. However, the cause of the torn corners of the mouth should be clarified, because a zinc cream only relieves the discomfort, but does not eliminate the problem.

For nutrient deficiencies, vitamin and mineral supplements can be taken. Fungal diseases are treated with antibiotic ointments to be prescribed by the doctor.

Usually, a tear in the corner of the mouth disappears within a few days. If the problem occurs frequently, you should see a doctor.

To avoid the tears, the corners of the mouth should be kept as dry as possible. Do not wet the corners of the mouth with saliva, or wipe the corners of the mouth after brushing the teeth and after meals.
In the cold season, you can keep the skin on your lips and in the corners of your mouth supple with care products so that they are less susceptible.
Proper nutrition avoids vitamin deficiencies. Milk and dairy products, eggs, yeast and liver contain vitamin B2, beetroot and meat contain iron. Dark chocolate, peanuts and pumpkin seeds are good sources of zinc.