Angular cheilitis is the second most common infection of the lip. It is the inflammation of one or more corners of the lip, or the entire lip. Cheilitis is an opportunistic infection mostly by fungus and bacteria. The factors that predisposes one to having this condition include nutritional deficiencies, habits such as lip licking and closing mouth for long periods of time. Other factors include immunosuppression due to some diseases and dehydration resulting in dry lips. This condition can last for a few days, but in some cases it may persist for an indefinite amount of time.

This condition affects a huge number of people. Most of them are unaware of the advancements in treatment of his condition. This makes them use older and more time consuming methods like use of topical creams. Recent advancement in dentistry has led to newer and more effective ways of treating this condition.                                   

One of the best methods is the treatment using Botox. This is a muscle relaxant toxin that is mostly used in the advancement of facial features, like temporary removal of wrinkles. Botox is approved for use in medical procedures by the FDA. It is therefore a safe treatment for such conditions.

For those who have gummy smiles, the treatment with Botox is also beneficial with great results. Gummy smile happens when the upper teeth look too short compared to the gingival tissue that is displayed with a smile. It is a major source of low self-esteem issues and can really affect the quality of people’s lives. But with this new mode of treatment, the upper lip is relaxed by the effect of the injection making it cover the gums. This helps to relieve the gummy smiles for a period of about 4 months. After the effects of the injection reduce, additional doses will be made. This procedure is less invasive than other dental procedures.