Extended dental proceduressuch as multiple fillings, root canals, crown placements, or dental surgeriescan leave more than just your teeth feeling tender. One of the most common but often overlooked side effects is dry, cracked, or sore lips. After sitting for an extended time with your mouth open, your lips and the corners of your mouth can become dry, stretched, and irritated.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, patient comfort is always our top priority. This guide provides essential lip care tips to help you recover comfortably and protect your lips after any extended dental procedure.
Why Lips Get Dry or Sore After Dental Procedures
Extended dental treatments often involve keeping the mouth open for long periods. This can lead to:
Dryness from exposure to air
Stretching at the corners of the mouth
Cracking, soreness, or chapping
Mild swelling or irritation
This is especially common with procedures lasting longer than 45 minutes.
Common Lip Issues After Dental Work
Dry, flaky lips
Cracks at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis)
Redness or mild swelling
Soreness when opening or stretching the mouth
Irritation from dental tools or suction devices
Best Lip Care Tips Post Extended Dental Appointments
1. Apply a Moisturizing Lip Balm Before Your Appointment
Protect your lips by applying a non-petroleum-based, fragrance-free lip balm before arriving at the dental office. This creates a moisture barrier during treatment.
2. Use Lip Balm Immediately After the Procedure
Right after the procedure, reapply lip balm to soothe dryness. Look for balms containing:
Shea butter
Beeswax
Coconut oil
Vitamin E
3. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat dehydration, which worsens dry lips.
4. Avoid Licking Your Lips
While it might feel instinctive, licking dry lips only dries them out more. Use a hydrating lip balm instead.
5. Treat Cracks Promptly
If you notice cracks at the corners of your mouth:
Apply a healing ointment like petroleum jelly, lanolin-based balm, or a medical-grade lip treatment.
Avoid spicy, salty, or acidic foods that may sting cracked areas.
Keep the area moisturized regularly until it heals.
6. Avoid Irritants
Steer clear of:
Lip products with fragrances or flavors
Matte lipsticks (which are often drying)
Harsh exfoliants
7. Protect Against Further Dryness
If your dental procedure was followed by outdoor exposure (especially wind or cold weather), keep your lips protected with a balm that has SPF 15 or higher.
Special Care for Angular Cheilitis (Cracks at the Corners)
Angular cheilitis happens when saliva accumulates at the corners of the mouth, creating tiny cracks that can become inflamed or even infected. Treat it by:
Keeping the area dry when not applying balm
Using antibacterial ointment if recommended by your dentist
Maintaining good hydration and nutrition
Lip-Friendly Diet for Healing
Certain foods can help speed lip recovery:
Hydrating fruits: Watermelon, cucumbers, oranges
Healthy fats: Avocados, nuts, and olive oil
Vitamin-rich foods: Leafy greens, berries, carrots (rich in vitamins A and C)
Avoid:
Salty snacks
Acidic fruits (lemons, tomatoes)
Spicy dishes
Crunchy foods that stretch your mouth excessively
When to Contact McLevin Dental
Reach out if you experience:
Cracks that dont heal within a few days
Redness that worsens
Signs of infection (pus, swelling, or pain)
Difficulty opening your mouth due to severe lip tightness or cracking
Were here to help assess whether further treatment is needed.
Comfort Beyond Your Smile
At McLevin Dental, our commitment to patient comfort extends beyond your teeth and gums. Lip care is an important part of post-treatment recovery that ensures your entire mouth feels comfortable and healthy.
If you have concerns about lip discomfort after a dental procedureor want advice on general oral careour caring Scarborough dental team is always ready to help.