Oral Thrush (Candidiasis): Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
If you have noticed creamy white patches on your tongue, inner cheeks, or the roof of your mouth, along with a burning or sore feeling, you may be dealing with oral thrush. This is a common fungal infection that affects both adults and infants, and while it can be uncomfortable, it is usually treatable once properly diagnosed. Here is what you need to know about its causes, symptoms, and treatment.
What Is Oral Thrush?
Oral thrush, also called oral candidiasis, is an infection caused by an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Candida albicans. Small amounts of this fungus live naturally in the mouth without causing problems. Thrush develops when something disrupts the natural balance in the mouth, allowing the fungus to multiply.
Common Causes
Several factors can trigger this imbalance, including:
- A weakened immune system, due to illness, certain medications, or conditions like diabetes
- Recent use of antibiotics, which can reduce the helpful bacteria that normally keep Candida in check
- Wearing dentures, especially if they do not fit well or are not cleaned regularly
- Dry mouth, often caused by certain medications or medical conditions
- Smoking
- Use of inhaled corticosteroids for asthma without rinsing the mouth afterward
- In infants, an immature immune system or transmission during breastfeeding
Symptoms to Watch For
In Adults
Adults with oral thrush often notice:
- White or cream coloured patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or roof of the mouth
- Redness or soreness underneath the patches if they are wiped away
- A burning sensation in the mouth or throat
- Loss of taste or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Cracking and redness at the corners of the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing in more severe cases
In Infants
In babies, oral thrush can appear as white patches on the tongue, gums, or inside the cheeks that look a bit like curdled milk but do not wipe away easily. Babies may become fussy during feeding, refuse to nurse, or show discomfort while sucking. Breastfeeding mothers may also notice sore, red, or itchy nipples, since the infection can pass back and forth between mother and baby.
How Oral Thrush Is Diagnosed
In most cases, a dentist or doctor can identify oral thrush simply by examining the mouth. If the diagnosis is unclear or the infection keeps coming back, a small sample may be taken from the affected area to confirm the type of fungus involved and rule out other causes.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and the age of the patient.
For Adults
- Antifungal medications in the form of lozenges, gels, or mouth rinses for mild to moderate cases
- Oral antifungal tablets for more widespread or persistent infections
- Improved denture hygiene, including daily cleaning and proper fit checks
- Managing underlying conditions, such as better blood sugar control for people with diabetes
For Infants
- A doctor-prescribed antifungal gel or liquid applied directly to the affected areas
- Sterilising pacifiers, bottle nipples, and any feeding equipment regularly
- Treating the mother's nipples simultaneously if breastfeeding, to prevent reinfection
Most cases of oral thrush improve within one to two weeks of starting appropriate antifungal treatment. It is important not to stop treatment early, even if symptoms improve quickly, since this can lead to the infection returning.
When to See a Dentist
If you or your child in Sector 31, Gurugram notice persistent white patches, soreness, or feeding difficulties that do not improve within a few days, it is worth getting a proper examination. A dentist can confirm whether it is thrush or another condition, such as a tooth abscess or other oral infection, and guide you toward the right treatment.
| Treatment Type | Typical Range (Sector 31, Gurugram) |
|---|---|
| Consultation and oral examination | Rs 300 to Rs 800 |
| Antifungal medication (prescription based) | Rs 150 to Rs 600 |
| Follow-up review visit | Rs 200 to Rs 500 |
These are typical ranges only and actual costs can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the specific treatment plan recommended after examination.
Preventing Oral Thrush
Good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, proper denture care, and rinsing the mouth after using inhaled steroids can all help reduce the risk of thrush. For infants, sterilising feeding equipment and treating both mother and baby together when needed can prevent the infection from recurring.
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The Tooth Atelier · Basement, C-3, Shrimati Santhosh Yadav Rd, Sector 31, Gurugram
Frequently asked questions
Is oral thrush contagious?
Oral thrush itself is not usually considered contagious in the way a cold is, but the Candida fungus can pass between a breastfeeding mother and baby, or through shared utensils in people with weak immunity. Good hygiene reduces this risk.
Can oral thrush go away on its own?
Mild cases in healthy adults sometimes clear up once the underlying cause, such as a course of antibiotics, is resolved. However, most cases need antifungal treatment to clear fully, so it is best to get it checked rather than wait.
Why does my baby keep getting thrush even after treatment?
Reinfection often happens through breastfeeding, pacifiers, or bottle nipples that still carry the fungus. Sterilising feeding items and treating both mother and baby, if breastfeeding, usually helps break the cycle.
Can oral thrush be a sign of something more serious?
Occasionally yes. Frequent or severe thrush in adults can point to uncontrolled diabetes, a weakened immune system, or other underlying conditions, so it is worth mentioning to your dentist or doctor if it keeps recurring.
Treatment costs mentioned on this page are indicative ranges for the Sector 31, Gurugram region. Your exact cost depends on your case and will be confirmed after a clinical examination at the clinic.