Oral thrush

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a condition in which the fungus Candida albicans accumulates on the lining of your mouth. Candida is a normal organism in your mouth, but sometimes it can overgrow and cause symptoms.

Symptoms

Oral thrush causes creamy white lesions, usually on your tongue or inner cheeks. Sometimes oral thrush may spread to the roof of your mouth, your gums or tonsils, or the back of your throat.

Other symptoms in adults are:

• Loss of taste
• Pain in the mouth or throat
• Feeling as if cotton is in your mouth
• Cracking and redness at the corners of your mouth (a condition called Angular cheilitis)

Causes

Oral thrush and other Candida infections can occur when your immune system is compromised by disease or drugs such as prednisone, or when antibiotics disturb the natural balance of microorganisms in your body.

Risk factors

Factors that can increase your risk of developing oral thrush include:

• Weakened immunity
• Diabetes
• Wearing dentures
• Having a dry mouth
• Smoking
• Undergoing cancer treatments

Prevention

Practicing good oral hygiene can prevent some cases of oral thrush. You can try these methods at home:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Rinse your mouth
• Floss your teeth at bedtime
• Regular dental checkups

Treatment

Treatment for oral thrush depends on the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health. Treatment usually involves antifungal medicines.

Oral thrush Resources
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