Symptoms of oral thrush may include:
White, creamy patches or lesions on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, gums, or tonsils
Redness or soreness in the affected areas
Pain or difficulty swallowing
Loss of taste
Cracking or bleeding at the corners of the mouth (in severe cases)
Red flags that may indicate a more serious condition include:
Persistent or worsening symptoms despite treatment
Fever or other signs of infection
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Lesions that spread to other parts of the body
Treatment for oral thrush typically involves antifungal medications to kill the Candida fungus. These medications may be taken orally or applied topically.
Practicing good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly
Rinsing the mouth with saltwater or an antiseptic mouthwash
Avoiding irritating substances such as tobacco, alcohol, and spicy or acidic foods
Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated
Treating underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the infection, such as diabetes or immune system disorders
