Oral Thrush is defined as white lesions that appear within the mouth. They can show up on the cheeks, tongue, the roof of the mouth and gums. They can be painful and might even bleed slightly when touched. It can be a scary ailment to have, but it is easily treatable. Here are the steps you need to take if oral thrush is present in your mouth.
Diagnosis of Oral Thrush
If you suspect that thrush is inside your mouth, your dentist will be able to diagnosis it easily. They can take a small sample of it and exam it under a microscope. In addition, there are physical exams and blood tests that can help determine the source of the issue.
If the thrush has spread to your esophagus, this can be a more serious condition. The dentist may ask you to undergo one of the following tests:
• Throat culture
• Endoscopic exam
Treatment of Thrush
The purpose behind thrush treatment is to stop the spread of the fungus quickly. Treatments can include:
• Prescription antifungal medications
• Eating plain yogurt
• Taking probiotics and acidophilus
Preventing Oral Thrush
It is much easier to prevent oral thrush than to get rid of it. Here are some tips that you can follow to avoid an outbreak of thrush.
• Practice good oral hygiene habits
• Change your toothbrush often and rinse it well after brushing
• Rinse your mouth after medications are taken
• Use a probiotic on a regular basis, especially when you are taking an antibiotic medication
• Treat vaginal infections as soon as symptoms become present
• Avoid diets high in sugar content
• Eat a well-balanced diet rich in vegetables and nutrient-rich foods
• Rinse dentures well to avoid bacteria from spreading in the mouth
If you have a compromised immune system or are pregnant, be sure to get to your dentist as soon as possible. Consultations with your Burke, VA family dentist are an important part of treating oral thrush in any patient. Not only will they be able to offer a treatment plan that will restore a healthy balance, they can also provide tips for preventing future issues.
S. Carpenter