CONDITIONS

Oral Fungus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Mouth Fungus? 

Oral fungus is also referred to as oral thrush, a yeast infection that mostly affects infants and toddlers as well as elderly individuals.  These types of yeast infections are often caused by the fungus known as Candida Albicans. Though most of us have a small amount of Candida Albicans already in our mouths, if the growth is not controlled, it can lead to oral thrush.  

Mouth Fungus Symptoms 

As the fungus develops in the mouth and the infection grows, the following symptoms tend to follow: 

  • Dry or cotton-like mouthfeel 

  • Dry, cracked skin at the corners of the lips and mouth 

  • White or yellowish bumps on the lips, gums, inner cheeks, tonsils, and tongue 

  • Bleeding if the sores or bumps are irritated 

  • Difficulty swallowing 

  • Loss of taste  

When oral thrush occurs in infants or toddlers, it usually goes away without any medical intervention required. However, it is best to consult with your healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Mouth Fungus Causes 

Mouth or oral fungus becomes an issue once it develops into oral thrush. The common causes of the infection can vary, but most usually include: 

  • Overgrowth of Candida Albicans  

  • Certain medications that affect bacteria growth in the body 

  • Medical treatments that make you more susceptible to infections 

  • Compromised immune system due to other underlying medical conditions such as diabetes 

  • Close contact with someone who is contagious 

If you suspect that you or someone you know has an infection, consult with your healthcare professional to be properly diagnosed with oral thrush or any other form of mouth or lip fungus.  

Mouth Fungus Treatment 

If diagnosed with oral thrush, our healthcare provider may prescribe an anti-fungal medication to help treat the infection. Depending on the severity of the infection, medical treatment will vary.  

From Oral-B, the #1 dentist-recommended toothbrush brand, worldwide. *

*Based on surveys carried out for P&G regularly. For verification, contact: ukcontact.im@pg.com

Sources: 

https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/thrush/index.html 

https://www.healthline.com/health/thrush#causes 

https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/thrush.html 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/oral-thrush/symptoms-causes/syc-20353533 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/178864 

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/oral-thrush-mouth-thrush/