Yeast Infection, Oral - Oral Thrush

Oral thrush, or oral Candida, is caused by a fungus or yeast named Candida. This is the same organism that causes vaginal yeast infections. The infection occurs on the moist surfaces of the tongue, palate, cheeks, and lips. Oral Candida infections are fairly common in adults. They can affect up to 5% of newborn infants as well.

What is going on in the body?

This disease often occurs during or after a course of antibiotics. This is because the antibiotic can reduce the number of bacteria that routinely grow in the mouth. These bacteria normally keep the level of Candida fungi in check. When they are not present, the yeast overgrows.

This fungus can infect people of all ages. However, it is most often seen in newborns and the elderly unless other health problems are present.

Conditions that may contribute to thrush include:

What are the causes and risks of the infection?

Areas of infection can become more severely infected. They may spread to the throat or esophagus, which can be serious. Being unable to maintain a healthy diet may add to the problem. Oral Candida infection can be an indication of a serious systemic disease.

What are the signs and symptoms of the infection?

Symptoms of thrush may include:

How is the infection diagnosed?

A healthcare professional can diagnose the condition by examining the person. The exam may include gently maneuvering the patches to check for bleeding under the white curd like areas. If in doubt, scrapings of the areas are sent to a lab for analysis. If the doctor suspects that there is a serious underlying illness present, he or she will need to check for this as well. Infants should be seen by a pediatrician immediately if there is any indication of symptoms.

What can be done to prevent the infection?

Measures to prevent oral Candida infection include:

What are the long-term effects of the infection?

If properly treated, this disease should completely go away. The condition can recur or more serious problems may develop if prescribed medication is not taken properly.

What are the risks to others?

There are no risks to others, as thrush cannot be passed from one person to another. However, a person with thrush may have an underlying disease, such as HIV, which may be contagious.

What are the treatments for the infection?

There are several types of effective medication. Some are taken orally. Others are used as a mouth rinse, then swallowed. A doctor can also treat affected areas with topical mediations such as gentian violet. Some of the drugs that can be used include:

All of these medications must be taken under a doctor's care as prescribed.

Another aspect of treatment involves refitting or adjusting ill-fitting denture or other oral appliances. Dentures and other oral appliances should not be worn at night unless specifically recommended by the dentist.

How is the infection monitored?

Any suspicion of recurrence should be brought to the attention of a healthcare professional.

Author:Marvin Goldfogel, DDS
Date Written:
Editor:Slon, Stephanie, BA
Edit Date:03/17/00
Reviewer:Adam Brochert, MD
Date Reviewed:09/19/01