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Cracked corners of the mouth are a common problem. When the corners of your mouth split open, it can occur for a number of reasons. The corners can get cracked due to the following:

What are cracked mouth corners?

A cracked corner is a type of crack that typically affects the two corners of the mouth, which are most susceptible to this kind of damage. This can occur as the result of an impact on the face or some sort of blunt-force trauma to the area. The symptoms are similar, but the location of the injury is different enough to require different treatment approaches and procedures.

\What causes cracked mouth corners?

If you've noticed that the corners of your mouth are cracked or chipped, you may be concerned about what may have caused it. The most common causes of cracked mouth corners include chewing on hard foods, biting your cheeks and tongue, grinding your teeth at night, using your teeth to open packages, and getting hit in the mouth while playing sports. However, cracked mouth corners that have been caused by trauma should be addressed by a dentist as soon as possible. You can help to prevent cracks in the corners of your mouth by avoiding these behaviors and protecting your gums with a nightguard from your emergency dentist in Plano, TX.

What are the symptoms of cracked mouth corners?

If you experience pain from eating, biting, or chewing food, then you may have damaged one or more corners of your mouth. Other common symptoms include:

• A sharp pain in the area of the crack
• Sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks
• Pain in the jaw joint
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Swelling near the cracks
• Sores in the mouth corners

If you have any of the above symptoms, it's important to come in and see a dentist as soon as possible so we can determine the cause of the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment.

How are these cracks treated?

Our dentists will perform a thorough examination to determine if there are other issues causing your pain and will recommend a treatment plan to resolve the issue. 

If you would like more information, please contact us or schedule an appointment for a consultation.