Oral Candidiasis: The Yeast Infection

The oral candidiasis is also called as thrush or yeast infection, which is a fungal infection of the mouth and/or throat. Every healthy person has some quantity of fungus in the mouth, digestive tract, vagina and the skin.

This fungus is friendly to the body and prevents other fungus from causing any fungal diseases. But when the person's immune system is weakened, it allows for the other fungus to easily attack the body like this oral candidiasis.

The fungus named candida causes the oral candidiasis. Certain drugs promote the growth of candida by altering the organisms in the mouth.

Diabetes, iron deficiency, folate, zinc deficiency also cause the growth of candida. Oral candidiasis is mostly found in exposed and moist parts of the body such as oral cavity/oral thrush, the vagina or the folds of skin in diaper area.

Oral candidiasis occurs without symptoms but sometimes the common symptoms are discomfort and burning sensation in the mouth and the throat with an distorted sense of taste.

Some yellowish or creamy white spots in the mouth and throat can be removed by scraping which is very common. The worst case of oral candidiasis can include mouth sores, cracking, redness, soreness and swelling at the corners of the mouth.

Diagnosing the appearance and symptoms, oral candidiasis can be completely treated. The diagnosis is confirmed by scraping the sore and examining under a microscope. Oral candidiasis is successfully treated either with home remedies or over-the-counter or prescription antifungal medications if the infection is severe.

Consumption or direct application of yogurt or lightly crushed cloves of garlic are some of the most preferred home remedies. It is best to always remember that while home remedies offer relief in minor cases of infection, seeking medical care is also necessary because the extent of the infection and the time for it to spread cannot be judged.

The kinds of food taken into the body and the health of our immune system are always inter-connected. Always following some basic guidelines helps prevent these fungal infections like oral candidiasis.

Many doctors and dentists agree that sugar, yeast, dairy, caffeine, nicotine, wheat and alcohol are the main causes that help the growth of candida that causes oral candidiasis. So, to prevent this, it is recommended to take as little as possible of these substances and control the production of yeast.

Eating foods that suppress the growth of yeast is also advised, for example, fresh garlic mixed in food. If liquid supplements need to be taken, make sure that the supplements contain complex carbohydrates, are high in protein and low in sugar levels. Good oral health is the best medicine for oral candidiasis.

Navigation

Home

Your Teeth

Bad Breath

Cosmetic Dentists

Dental Braces

Dental Implants

Dental Insurance

Dental Plans

Dentures

Gingivitis

Gum Disease