Mouth Sores & Cracked Lips
The underproduction of saliva increases the risk of plaques and bacteria to store up in the mouth, causing dental infections [8]. For example, dry mouth may cause canker sores to form, which is a small open wound in the mouth that causes pain ranging from mild to severe. Dehydration may cause fissures on the oral mucosa; the insides of the cheek, which may lead to sores.
Chapped or cracked lips may occur when the skin around the mouth becomes dehydrated and tight. Xerostomia symptoms may also extend to the external areas of the mouth, causing dry or cracked lips, and sores to form at the corners. Although saliva doesn’t provide moisture directly to the lips, the underproduction of the salivary glands causes dryness in all corners of the mouth, which may transcend to the external parts. When the lips stay dry over a long period, the skin begins to crack, forming painful or sensitive cuts on the surface of the skin.
Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is not a severe condition on its own; however, it may be a sign of a minor or serious health condition (diseases). Hence, it is advisable to seek medical help for a correct diagnosis and to prevent further complications.
References:
[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/symptoms-causes/syc-20356048
[2] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/bad-breath
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/symptoms-causes/syc-20356048
[4] https://medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/dry-mouth
[5] https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/oral-health/signs-and-symptoms-of-dry-mouth
[6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fissured_tongue
[7] http://sunningdaledental.com/blog/oral-hygiene/the-importance-of-saliva.html
[8] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-dry-mouth#1