Oral Yeast Infection or Thrush is basically a fungal infection that occurs in the mouth and surrounding areas. It is one of the most common and unpleasant infections caused by the Candida fungus, more commonly referred to as Yeast.

Toddlers, babies, older adults and people with a weak immune system get infected more commonly. So what leads to yeast infection and how do you prevent its occurrence? Keep reading to know all about the causes and cures for Oral Yeast Infections.

Candida fungus is usually present in the mouth, digestive tract and skin of most healthy people. However, in certain conditions such as warm and moist areas, these can grow rapidly and cause infection. Let’s take a look at some of the conditions that lead to the growth of this notorious fungus.

Common Causes that Lead to Oral Yeast Infection

• Warm and moist areas of the body such as the pubic region, underarms, under the breasts, inside the mouth, beneath the dentures etc
• Cuts and cracks in the skin
• Other underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer, pregnancy and AIDS
• Certain medications like corticosteroids, birth control pills, antibiotics and antidepressants
• Stress and unhealthy lifestyle
• Smoking & bad oral habits
• Hormonal problems such as PCOS

How Do I know if I have got Thrush?

The most appropriate diagnosis for thrush can be done only by your health practitioner; however, there are a few common signs of Oral Candidiasis. These include white, slightly elevated lesions on the tongue and lips; spots inside the mouth with a creamy/yellowish tinge; and painful lesions that bleed when you try to scrape them off.

Thrush can develop suddenly so you might not even notice you have got it until it progresses to a stage where the lesions are easily visible. Its best to see your doctor as soon as you notice any of the above signs, as early treatment can help you avoid a lot of pain and discomfort.

Thrush or oral Candidiasis is usually treated with antifungal medications that are available as pills and liquid. Specific creams and medicated toothpastes can also be recommended depending upon your age and the severity of infection. While this the approach that doctors adopt, there are a few things you can do to keep oral yeast infection at bay:

Follow Good Oral Hygiene: Remember how your mom used to pester you for brushing your teeth atleast twice a day. Stick to that advice and also ‘Floss’ daily.

Avoid too many mouthwashes and sprays: Most mouthwashes these days contain harsh chemicals that destroy the good bacteria and also create an imbalance of microorganisms in your mouth.

See your dentist regularly: Visiting your dentist might not be the most exciting thing to do, yet it is definitely very important especially if you are a diabetic or wear dentures. Regular dental checkups will keep a check on the formation of yeast infections in your mouth and help you maintain good oral health.

Avoid too many sugary products: Sugar can act as a catalyst for the growth of Candida fungus, so limiting your sweet intake will help control the growth of oral fungal infections. Also try avoiding products that contain yeast such as bread, beer, wine and other bakery products.

Quit Smoking: If all the health hazards that smoking can cause weren’t reason enough, you have one more. Smoking causes severe damage to you oral health, thus leading to Thrush and other oral infections. Consult your health practitioner or dentist to know about various ways to kick the habit.

My personal recommendation, if you are currently having problems with oral yeast infections, is that you follow a fast and track proven holistic approach in order to cure the infection permanently.