Unpleasant taste, burning sensation, dry mouth? Watch out. It could be oral fungus. If you notice similar symptoms in yourself, be sure to consult your doctor. In this case, it really is not worth delaying! 

If you are afraid of the dentist's reaction - stop! Candidiasis (as we can also call this condition) occurs in many patients. You have nothing to be ashamed of! 

Symptoms of oral candidiasis

Let's start with the fact that oral mycosis will progress differently depending on the type of bacteria that causes it. What happens initially, however, is usually the same for each patient. There is pain, a feeling of dryness and the skin at the corners of the mouth becomes dry and cracked. There may also be a burning sensation in the mouth and an unpleasant, characteristic aftertaste or loss of taste. 

It is not uncommon to develop bad breath, although this in itself may not necessarily be a sign of ringworm. Read our text: "Causes of bad breath and how to get rid of it". 

Oral mycosis can also be visible at a glance. It is characterised by white plaques, strongly connected by mucous membranes. These will occur most frequently in people whose immunity has recently declined severely and in those taking antibiotics.

When the disease progresses, intensely red lesions (erythematous) may appear. This is the last call to react so that these do not turn into hypertrophic lesions. What is this? The structure of the mucous membrane is uneven, with visible warts. 

However, we do not have good news. Sometimes the disease progresses asymptomatically and the only way to recognise it is through regular visits to the dentist. If candidiasis is suspected, the doctor will first take a history and then order clinical tests. 

Oral mycosis - causes 

The most common cause of oral candidiasis is taking antibiotics, which kill the beneficial bacteria in the body. Without them, the yeasts that cause the disease can thrive without resistance. This is why shielding medication during antibiotic treatment is so important. 

If your diet is not one of the richest, you may also be at risk. A healthy lifestyle is not only about a beautiful complexion and figure, but above all about health. An organism armed with vitamins, minerals and good fats is one that has the resources to cope with harmful external factors. 

A weakened immune system - for the same reason - also 'favours' the development of oral fungus. Read also: "Drugs and diseases that spoil teeth". 

If you are prone to such infections and smoke cigarettes, good advice: give them up immediately. There is a good chance that they are a factor that promotes relapse. 

For people who have dentures, a common problem with candidiasis can be caused by a poor fit. Make sure everything is right with yours! 

Another factor that contributes to oral fungus, there are frequent irritations, mucous membrane cavities. Steroid medications (for example, those inhaled, for asthma) and poor oral hygiene do not help either! Read our text: "(Un)proper oral hygiene - the 10 biggest mistakes" and make sure you don't commit any of them! 

Candidiasis - treatment 

There are several ways to treat oral candidiasis. The most effective of these is, of course, pharmacotherapy. Your doctor may prescribe antifungal drugs in tablet or liquid form. These should be used regularly as prescribed. 

Natural remedies such as coconut oil can also help or tea tree oil. Here, too, however, we recommend that you consult your doctor and, based on his or her recommendations, select a 'booster treatment' for your medication. Remember that natural remedies, as effective as they are, can in some cases be harmful. So always be under the care of a specialist! 

What, on the other hand, can in no way harm you are yoghurts or other products containing live bacteria cultures. They will support your body! 

How to prevent oral fungus? 

A healthy, balanced diet and perfect oral hygiene should be enough to prevent candidiasis. And don't forget to regularly visit your dentist, who will be able to react in time if an infection develops. It is much better to start treatment at the very beginning of the disease development! 

If you are looking for a dental practice in the UK, then you have come to the right place. With us, you can count on professional support, empathetic specialists and a friendly atmosphere. Make an appointment today!