Why Does Oral Thrush Develop, and How Can You Get Rid of It?

January 30, 2024

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a fungal infection of the mouth caused by Candida albicans, a common (and typically harmless) fungus that exists in the body. However, oral thrush can develop when there is an overgrowth of Candida in the mouth.

This condition can be uncomfortable, causing mouth sores and a burning sensation, and it can develop due to various factors. Understanding the causes and treatment options is crucial for effectively managing and getting rid of oral thrush.

Causes of Oral Thrush Development

There are several reasons oral thrush can happen, even in healthy individuals. Oral thrush can be the result of:

A weakened immune system. People with weakened immune systems, such as children or older individuals, and those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or autoimmune diseases, are more prone to developing oral thrush [1]. Additionally, certain medications like corticosteroids or antibiotics can weaken the immune system and contribute to the development of thrush.
Poor oral hygiene. Inadequate oral hygiene can create an environment that promotes the overgrowth of Candida. Infrequent brushing, flossing, and poor dental hygiene can increase the risk of developing oral thrush.
Underlying health conditions. Conditions such as diabetes, uncontrolled xerostomia (dry mouth), and nutritional deficiencies can contribute to the development of oral thrush [2].
Smoking. Smoking can weaken the immune system, decrease salivary flow, and lead to changes in oral bacteria, all of which can create favorable conditions for the development of oral thrush.

Getting Rid of Oral Thrush

It’s essential to treat oral thrush because the condition will not go away on its own. The primary treatment for oral thrush is antifungal medications [3]. These can be in the form of oral rinses, lozenges, or tablets. These medications work by targeting and destroying the fungus.

However, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene to help the medicine work properly and eliminate oral thrush. This includes regular brushing and flossing, using an antiseptic mouthwash as directed by your dentist, and keeping regular dental appointments.

It’s also important to treat any underlying health conditions contributing to oral thrush, such as uncontrolled diabetes or xerostomia, to help thrush go away and prevent a reoccurrence of the condition.

What Else Can You Do to Help Oral Thrush Go Away?

If you have a challenging time getting rid of oral thrush, it may be necessary to:

Make dietary changes. Certain foods, like those high in sugar, can contribute to the growth of Candida in the mouth [4]. Making dietary changes to reduce sugar intake and promote a healthy balance of oral microbiota can support the treatment of oral thrush.
Quit smoking or chewing tobacco. Both smoking and chewing tobacco can contribute to the recurrence of oral thrush, so consider reducing or eliminating tobacco use to help protect your smile and your oral health.

If you have persistent or recurrent oral thrush, it’s important to seek advice from a healthcare professional, as they can provide an accurate diagnosis, recommend appropriate treatment, and assess any underlying health issues that may be contributing to the condition.

Do You Have Symptoms of Oral Thrush?

Understanding the causes of oral thrush and appropriate treatment options are essential for effectively managing and eliminating this condition. Do you have symptoms of oral thrush? If so, don’t want to seek treatment to prevent it from getting worse!