EXPLAINER: What to know about oral thrush

You may have encountered someone with creamy white spots on their tongue and assumed it was due to poor oral hygiene. However, it’s a fungal infection known as oral thrush.

This condition occurs when the fungus living naturally in the mouth has multiplied and has caused an infection.

Oral thrush is prevalent among babies and older adults with weakened immune systems. But it can affect individuals of any age. Even though this condition is treatable, it can cause discomfort and complications if left untreated.

So, here are things you need to know about oral thrush.

What is oral thrush?

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of the fungus in the mouth.

This condition manifests as creamy white lesions (spots) on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or throat.

Thrushes can quickly irritate and cause mouth pain, redness and sometimes bleeding when scraped.

What are the symptoms of oral thrush?

Oral thrush’s symptoms might not be visible in its early stage but the common sign is the presence of creamy white dots in the mouth — on the tongue, inner cheeks, or gum.

However, here are some other symptoms that may develop.

• Pain or difficulty swallowing
• Slight bleeding if the spots are scraped
• A feeling that food gets stuck in your throat or mid-chest area
• Soreness or burning in the mouth
• A cotton-like sensation in the mouth
• Dry, cracked skin at the corners of the mouth
• A bad taste in your mouth
• A loss of taste
• Redness, irritation, and pain under dentures

Is oral thrush contagious?

Oral thrush is not particularly contagious but it is transmissible. This means it doesn’t spread from person to person but can be transmitted if someone comes in contact with it in another person’s saliva.

So if you kiss your partner and they have thrush, the fungus could be transmitted to your mouth. However, getting it depends on how healthy your immune system is.

How is oral thrush treated?

Oral thrush is majorly treated with antifungal medications.

These medications are usually prescribed according to your age and the severity of the symptoms.

However, oral thrush risks can be reduced through these preventative tips, according to a study.

• Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth with soft brushes. Make sure to clean the spaces between your teeth as well as it helps to remove plaques and bits of foods
• See your dentist regularly
• Care for your dentures: If you wear dentures (false teeth), clean them regularly to remove rough surfaces, leftover food and plaques
• Drink enough water: This will help keep your mouth from getting dry.