The same applies if the infection is spreading or is accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue or fever.
The standard treatment for oral candidiasis isantifungal drugs.
Topical antifungals applied directly to tissue are the first-line defense.
Verywell / Nusha Ashjaee
If these fail to erase the infection, oral antifungal taken by mouth may be used.
Antifungals for oral thrush are available by prescription.
Oral Thrush Home Remedies
Certain home remedies may help control oral thrush.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Good Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean is a crucial part of treating thrush.
Brush your teeth, gums, and tongue with a soft brush twice a day.
Floss afterward and rinse thoroughly with water.
If you wear dentures, it’s crucial that you brush regularly and disinfect your dentures daily.
Certain over-the-counter mouthwashes may help control thrush.
Look for ones that containhydrogen peroxide, such as Colgate Peroxyl.
Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes that can cause stinging.
Options include:
Opt for low-sugar or sugar-free options.
Consuming excessive sugar promotes yeast growth and may prolong the infection.
You should also avoid acidic or spicy foods and drinks, such as orange juice, that cause stinging.
Mouth Rinses
Warm salt waterrinsesmay help provide relief and control bacteria that can make symptoms worse.
Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 1 cup of warm water.
Gargle for 10 to 15 seconds and spit, repeating until you have finished the cup.
Baking soda rinses may also help slow the growth ofCandida.
Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in one cup of warm water.
Swish the solution around in your mouth, then spit it out.
Whether it can alter the course of aCandidainfection remains unproven.
Over-the-counterprobiotic supplementsand drinks withLactobacillus acidophilusmay also help restore friendly bacteria to your mouth.
Are There Over-the-Counter Antifungals?
Why Do I Have Oral Thrush?
Oral thrush should never be ignored.
Ultimately, there are no “normal” cases of oral thrush.
Even mild cases should be seen by a healthcare provider.
If the cause is known, adjustments can be made to prevent recurrence.
This may include adding aspacer to an inhaleror changing medications.
People with ill-fitting dentures might qualify for an upgrade, while heavy smokers may be prescribedsmoking cessation aids.
In all such cases, topical antifungal will likely be prescribed.
If the cause is unknown or infections are recurrent, an investigation should be pursued.
This may involve lab tests to check for nutritional deficiencies and signs of immunodeficiency.
If HIV is involved,treatment will be prescribedto strengthen the immune system and prevent this from happening.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
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DailyMed.Label: athlete’s foot- terbinafine hydrochloride cream.
