Your dentist can diagnose thrush by examining your mouth. He or she looks
for the distinctive white lesions on your mouth, tongue, or cheeks. Lightly
brushing the lesions away reveals a reddened, tender area that may bleed
slightly. A microscopic examination of tissue from a lesion can confirm the
diagnosis.
Thrush that extends into your esophagus may require other tests to make
the diagnosis. Such tests might include taking a throat culture (swabbing the
back of your throat with sterile cotton and studying the microorganisms under a
microscope), performing an endoscopy of your esophagus, stomach, and small
intestine (examining the lining of these body areas with a lighted camera
mounted on the tip of a tube passed through these areas), or taking X-rays of your esophagus.
How is thrush treated?
While healthy children and adults can be effectively treated for thrush, the symptoms
may be more severe and difficult to manage in those with weakened immune
systems. Antifungal medications, which are generally taken for 10 to 14 days,
are often prescribed to treat thrush. These medicines are available in tablets,
lozenges, or liquids. Your dentist will have a specific treatment approach
designed for you based on your age and the cause of the infection. Because the
presence of candida infection can be a symptom of other medical problems, your
dentist may suggest you seek care from a medical doctor as well so that any
underlying health problems you may have can be treated.
How can thrush be prevented?
The following can help you prevent
thrush:
Follow good oral hygiene practices. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a
day.
Avoid mouthwashes or sprays. These products can destroy the normal balance of microorganisms in
your mouth.
See your dentist regularly.
Especially if you have diabetes or wear dentures.
Limit the amount of sugar and yeast-containing foods you eat. Foods such as bread, beer, and wine
encourage candida growth.
If you smoke, quit. Ask your doctor or dentist about ways
to help you kick the habit.
WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by Darren R. Williams, DDS, on March 15, 2009.
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