Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a common fungal infection that develops inside the mouth and throat. It is caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a type of yeast that naturally lives in the mouth in small amounts. When the balance of bacteria and yeast in the mouth is disrupted, Candida can multiply and cause an infection.
Symptoms of oral thrush can include white or creamy patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth or throat, soreness or a burning sensation inside the mouth, redness or inflammation around the affected areas, an unpleasant or altered taste, pain or difficulty when eating or swallowing and cracked or sore corners of the mouth.
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing oral thrush. These include recent use of antibiotics, which can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the mouth, regular use of inhaled corticosteroids such as asthma inhalers without rinsing the mouth afterwards, a weakened immune system due to illness or medical treatment, wearing dentures that do not fit correctly or are not cleaned regularly, poor oral hygiene, smoking, dry mouth and underlying health conditions such as diabetes.
Oral thrush is not usually serious in otherwise healthy adults and can typically be treated effectively with antifungal medication such as Daktarin Oral Gel. However, if symptoms persist, recur frequently or affect someone with a weakened immune system, it is important to seek further medical advice.