Oral candidiasis, also known as oral thrush, is an infection in the mouth that is commonly caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. Naturally, this fungus is present in our mouths, but sometimes it overgrows and leads to infection.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of this condition and how to treat them will be helpful in maintaining good health in your mouth. For a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, consider scheduling a dental checkup near you.
Symptoms
Symptoms of oral candidiasis can depend upon the severity of the infection. Mentioned below are the symptoms to watch out for:
- White patches: You may develop white or creamy patches on your tongue, within your cheeks, or on your gums. They appear like cottage cheese and are painful if you try to rub them away.
- Redness: The area around the white patches may become red or sore. The redness can make the mouth uncomfortable, particularly when eating or drinking.
- Cracking: Your mouth corners may sometimes crack or get sore. This happens as a result of an angular cheilitis and may occur when the infection spreads.
- Bad taste: You might get a bad taste or your mouth may feel dry.
- Difficulty in swallowing: If the condition is severe, then one will experience pain in the mouth that creates difficulty in swallowing food or liquids.
Who Can Be Affected by Oral Candidiasis?
People who can get affected by oral candidiasis are :
- Infants: Babies are usually affected by the infection because their immune system is developing.
- Older adults: Oral thrush is common among older adults who have weak immune systems or who wear dentures. If you are having any of those symptoms, then look for treatment for oral thrush in adults.
- Weakened immune system: If you are suffering from a disease like HIV or diabetes, there is a high chance you will be affected by oral thrush, as your immune system is weak.
- People on Certain Medications: The balance of fungi in your mouth can be affected by medications like steroids or antibiotics and might result in an infection.
How to Treat Oral Candidiasis?
Oral candidiasis can efficiently be treated with the right medication from a dentist. Here’s how:
- Antifungal medications: Your dentist may prescribe an antifungal medication to eliminate the fungus. You will need to take it as prescribed by a dentist to cure your infection.
- Good oral hygiene: Maintaining a clean and healthy mouth is important, so brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. This helps to eliminate food and bacteria that can worsen infection.
- Rinse your mouth: Rinsing your mouth with mouthwash is recommended by a dentist to eliminate the fungus. Make sure to follow the directions on how to use the mouthwash.
- Avoid intake of sugary foods: Sugar feeds the fungus, so it is important to avoid these foods to prevent the growth of fungus.
- Change your toothbrush: If you have thrush, it’s good to get a new toothbrush after taking medicine. This helps make sure the fungus doesn’t go back into your mouth.
- Denture care: Clean your dentures every day if you wear them. The dentist recommends soaking them in an antifungal solution.
Will Oral Thrush Go Away On Its Own?
In very mild cases, oral thrush can go away on its own. But usually, medicine is needed to get rid of the fungus. If untreated, it can spread and get worse, making it harder to treat. It’s important to see a dentist to properly treat oral thrush and stay healthy.
Contact Us Today to Address Oral Thrush!
By noticing the signs early and getting treated quickly, you can maintain a healthy mouth free from infection. Essential Dentistry is a professional clinic dedicated to creating healthy smiles for over 30 years. Our goal is to provide individual care and treatment to our patients. Our dentist in Okotoks works hard to ensure you have a relaxing and effective dental treatment. If you think you have oral candidiasis or have any dental issues, contact us today!