Even a healthy mouth is lined with bacteria. Normally, your daily oral hygiene routine helps  prevent oral health complications. However, it is possible to develop an excess of bacteria and  fungi, which can lead to additional problems. Here’s what you should know about oral thrush  and what you can do to prevent it. 

What is it? 

Oral thrush is caused by a collection of the fungus Candida in your mouth. Bacteria and fungi  occur naturally in your mouth, but it is important that they are not permitted to build up.  Thrush can appear as white, thick scrapes on your tongue or inner cheek. It may also look like  patchy, white sores.  

Who does it affect? 

Young children, infants, and the elderly are at a higher risk of developing oral thrush. If you  have a weakened immune system or diabetes, it is even more important that you stay active to  keep your mouth healthy and prevent issues like oral thrush. Smokers also tend to develop oral  thrush more than other patients.  

What can it do? 

Oral thrush can lead to trouble swallowing and tasting. As it develops, it can become painful.  Oral thrush can make affected areas feel like they are burning, and slight bleeding can occur if  you are scraping your tongue or cheeks. Some describe the feeling as having cotton in their  mouth. 

Thrush can spread. If you have a weakened immune system, it is possible that thrush moves  into your lungs, digestive tract, and even your heart. 

How can I prevent It? 

Our best recommendation for preventing oral thrush is a vigilant daily oral hygiene routine that  includes a thorough brushing and flossing of your teeth, and includes your tongue. We  sometimes recommend a patient use a tongue scraper to clean your tongue. Just like brushing your teeth, your tongue depends on daily cleaning to stay healthy and free of germs and  bacteria.  

The American Dental Association recommends that for some patients it might be helpful to  consider an antimicrobial toothpaste or mouthwash. Check with our Chicago Heights, IL Dentist to see which  solutions might be best for you. 

We cannot overstate the importance of regularly scheduled dental exams. If you are a diabetic,  it is even more important that you schedule regular visits to our Dentist in 60411 office. By having your mouth  checked by our staff, we can work with you to prevent oral health issues like thrush.  

For more tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next visit, please contact our Dentist in Chicago Heights office. 

Resources: The American Dental Association 

http://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Science%20and%20Research/Files/patient_18.pdf?la=en

Sparkling Smiles of Chicago Heights
Phone: (708) 755-2400
Url: https://sparklingsmilesdentist.com/
2400 Chicago Rd.
Chicago Heights, IL 60411