ORAL THRUSH is clinically known as oropharyngeal candidiasis.
It is a common fungal infection that affects thousands of people every year.
Despite its prevalence, it often goes unnoticed or is mistaken for other conditions, leading many to delay treatment.
Characterized by creamy white patches inside the mouth, oral thrush is caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of yeast that naturally resides in the body. When the balance of microorganisms in the mouth is disrupted, Candida can multiply, resulting in infection.
While oral thrush can affect anyone, it is most common in infants, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Babies often develop thrush due to their still-developing immune defenses, and the infection can easily pass between mother and child during breastfeeding.
In adults, risk factors include diabetes, recent antibiotic use, smoking, wearing dentures, or underlying medical conditions that suppress the immune system.
People who use inhaled corticosteroids for asthma may also be more prone to developing thrush if they don’t rinse their mouths after using their inhaler.
Symptoms of oral thrush typically include white or yellowish patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or tonsils. These patches may resemble cottage cheese and can sometimes be wiped away, leaving behind red, tender areas that may bleed slightly.
Other common signs include a cottony feeling in the mouth, loss of taste, and discomfort when eating or swallowing. In infants, irritability during feeding and difficulty nursing may be the earliest indicators.
Diagnosis is usually straightforward. Healthcare providers can often identify thrush through a simple visual examination, though further testing may be necessary if the infection is persistent or occurs in individuals with chronic health conditions.
Because oral thrush can sometimes be a sign of an underlying issue — such as HIV, uncontrolled diabetes, or nutritional deficiencies — recurring episodes warrant medical evaluation.
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection.
Mild cases may clear on their own with improvements in oral hygiene, but most require antifungal medications. These can come in the form of oral suspensions, lozenges, or tablets.
Infants are typically treated with antifungal liquids applied directly to the affected areas. In more stubborn or systemic cases, doctors may prescribe stronger oral antifungal drugs.
Preventive measures play an important role in reducing the risk of thrush.
Proper oral hygiene — brushing teeth twice daily, flossing, and regular dental checkups — helps maintain a healthy balance of oral microorganisms.
Denture wearers should clean their dentures thoroughly and remove them at night.
Individuals using inhaled corticosteroids should rinse their mouth after each use.
Managing underlying conditions, such as keeping blood sugar levels under control in diabetes, can also significantly lower the chance of infection.
Although oral thrush is generally not dangerous for healthy individuals, it can be uncomfortable and persistent if left untreated.
For vulnerable populations, such as immunocompromised patients, it can lead to more serious complications. Awareness of risk factors, early detection, and proper treatment can help keep this common fungal infection under control.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim, Ed. D., is the former Associate Dean of the College of Dentistry, University of the East; former Dean, College of Dentistry, National University; Past President and Honorary Fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy; Honorary Fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists; Honorary Life Member of the Thai Association of Dental Implantology; and Founding Chairman of the Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.
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Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI, graduated Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of the Philippines, College of Dentistry, Manila, 2011; Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management, De la Salle University, Manila, 2002; and Master of Science (MSc.) in Oral Implantology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, 2019. He is an Associate Professor; Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists; and Fellow, Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail limdentalcenter@gmail.com/PN
