Oral Candidiasis (Oral Thrush)

Oral Candidiasis or Oral Thrush is an infection caused by the candida fungus in the mucous membrane lining of the mouth and tongue.

Why Does Oral Thrush Occur?

Candida fungus Causes oral thrush. Small amounts of the candida fungus always stay in a healthy mouth and on healthy skin that is normally kept in check by the immune system and other bacteria and microorganisms living in the body naturally. So, they usually don’t cause any harm. But, when the immune system becomes weak, the infection may occur. The following factors can increase the chances of getting oral thrush:

Being in generally poor health
Being a baby or very old
HIV infection or AIDS
Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Cancer
Cancer treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation
Untreated or uncontrolled Diabetes mellitus
Drugs that suppress your immune system
Use of excessive antibacterial mouthwash
Steroid medication
Severe Anemia
Lacking iron, folic acid or vitamin B12
Smoking
Wearing dentures
Lupus
Tongue piercing
Pregnancy

**What are the Signs and Symptoms of Oral Thrush?**

Whitish, velvety sores in the mouth and on the tongue
Underneath the spot, the tissue is red and may bleed easily
Pain
Rubbing or scraping of lesion causing slight bleeding
Loss of taste
A cottony feeling in the mouth
Redness may be developed under a denture in denture wearers.

How can Oral Thrush be Diagnosed?

Your dentist will examine your mouth and look for the distinctive white lesions on your mouth, tongue, or cheeks. Oral thrush generally does not require laboratory testing. But, he may suggest a microscopic examination of tissue from a lesion to confirm the diagnosis

If he finds that your oral thrush extends into your esophagus, he may order to perform other tests to make the diagnosis such as-

Throat culture
Endoscopic examination of esophagus, stomach, and small intestine
X-rays of esophagus

If your doctor suspects that certain medical conditions are responsible for your oral thrush, he or she will perform a physical exam and suggest other tests.

What can happen if Oral Thrush left untreated?

If you have a compromised immune system, Candida can spread throughout your body and cause the following Complications:

Meningitis
Arthritis
Endophthalmitis
Esophagitis
Spreading of infection to the intestines, making difficult to receive adequate nutrition
Endocarditis

What is the way of Oral Thrush Prevention?

Try to maintain a good oral hygiene practice. Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Follow correct method of brushing. Floss at least once a day.
Reduce taking sugar and yeast-containing foods
If you smoke, quit
Visit your dentist regularly. If you wear dentures or have diabetes, you must see your dentist regularly.
If you use a corticosteroid inhaler, rinse your mouth with light warm water or brush your teeth after taking your medication.