Julian Andrews
Oral thrush is a type of yeast infection caused by a build-up of the fungus candida in the lining of the mouth. More than half of the Australian population will have candida in their mouth and experience no ill effect. But sometimes something will happen to kill off the good bacteria present in the mouth, giving the candida the chance to grow.
People at high risk
As oral thrush is a result of the bacterial balance in the mouth changing, some people are at higher risk of developing oral thrush. These people include:
Symptoms
You may have oral thrush if you experience pain in your mouth, soreness or bleeding in your mouth, and cracks and redness at the corners of your mouth. However, the most common symptom of oral thrush is creamy white patches on the inside of your cheeks, gums and on your tongue.
Treatment
Pharmacists will be able to diagnose your oral thrush. Treatment may not require a visit to your doctor and anti-fungal medicines can be obtained over the counter at your local pharmacy. However, you may wish to visit a doctor if your thrush refuses to go or is particularly severe.
How to prevent oral thrush
Thrush can be painful, so the best thing to do is to try and avoid it.
Oral thrush is easily treated but can be painful. Prevention is the best route to take and remember to speak to local dental clinics such as Elphin Dental if you have any concerns.
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