Oral thrush, also called candidiasis, is a fungal infection that creates painful white sores in your mouth. However, in some cases, the mouth will not produce white spots but look bright red and be very sore instead. Oral thrush can be a bit unsightly, but there’s no need to worry! These fungal infections can be treated and, even better, prevented. Here’s what you need to know about treating your oral thrush.
What Are the Symptoms of Oral Thrush?
Not sure if what you’re seeing in your mouth is oral thrush? Here are some common symptoms you can watch out for:
- Painful white spots on the tongue or inner cheeks
- Occasionally, the area will not produce white spots, but will become red and sore
- New pains during regular mouth motions
- Light bleeding on the spots when eating or brushing your teeth
- Fungus on the roof of your mouth, gums, tonsils or back of your throat
- Cottony feeling in your mouth
- A noticeable loss of taste when eating or drinking
- For denture wearers, cracking or redness near the corners of the mouth
What Are the Causes of Oral Thrush?
Oral thrush is caused by a fungus called Candida Albicans. Which, if you’re keeping track, is what inspired the infection’s official name, “candidiasis”. This fungus spreads more easily to people with reduced or suppressed immunity, like young or elderly people or people with immune system disorders. Denture wearers, people taking certain medications, and people with dry mouth syndrome (xerostomia), Sjogren's Syndrome, or diabetes might also be more susceptible to oral thrush.
What Are the Risk Factors for Developing Increased Oral Thrush Symptoms?
Some circumstances, life stages or preexisting conditions may put you at risk for more problematic symptoms caused by oral thrush. Some of these include:
- Adults with weakened immune systems. Having a weakened immune system can put you at risk for developing severe symptoms from a case of oral thrush. For example, oral thrush could spread to the lungs, liver and digestive tract. If the infection spreads to your intestines, you may experience malnutrition which can make your body weak and susceptible to even more infection.
- Infants and breastfeeding mothers. Infants may have trouble feeding or be fussier than usual if oral thrush is to blame. If they have oral thrush, they will likely have the white lesions. Oral thrush can be passed through breastfeeding, so mothers should pay close attention to any unusual spots. Also, it's important to note that if infant passes it on to the mother and then heals, the mother can then inadvertently pass it back to the infant.
If you’re a breastfeeding mother, look for these signs and symptoms:- Itchy, sensitive or unusually red nipples
- Shiny or flaky skin found around the areola
- Highly unusual pain during nursing or between feedings
- Deep pains within the breast itself
Oral Thrush Remedies
The best bet for treating oral thrush is to consult with your doctor about prescribing an anti-fungal medication. But, if you’re looking for home remedies, there are a few things you can try to get your infection under control.
- Practice proper oral hygiene like brushing twice a day and flossing once a day to help reduce any extra food or plaque from your teeth or gumline.
- Unsweetened yogurt can help regulate the healthy bacteria levels in your mouth that fight the infection.
- Try taking acidophilus capsules or liquid. Similar to unsweetened yogurt, acidophilus can help restore your mouth’s normal bacteria. You can find it in natural food stores and many drugstores.
- Use a soft toothbrush to avoid scraping the sores.
- Avoid mouthwash until the infection has cleared. Not only can mouthwash sting, it can also dry out your mouth which could cause the infection to get worse. Try using warm salt water instead.
Preventing Oral Thrush
So how can you prevent an oral thrush outbreak? Here are a few steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing Candida infections:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily and see your dentist regularly for your twice-yearly cleanings, especially if you have diabetes or wear dentures.
- Check your dentures. First and foremost, make sure your dentures fit properly and don't cause irritation, and always remove them at night to give your gums some time to rest. Ask your dentist for the best way to clean your type of dentures and remember to clean them daily.
- Limit sugar and yeast-containing foods. Sugar and yeast-containing foods may support the growth of Candida. To keep oral thrush at bay, try reducing your intake of sugar and yeast-containing foods like bread, beer and wine.
Finding the root cause of your oral thrush might take some time. But once you do, there are plenty of ways you can prevent it from coming back. Work with your dentist to find the right treatment for you and get back to flashing your confident smile.
