What is oral candidiasis?
Candidiasis is the most common fungal infection of the oral cavity that causes severe discomfort in the tongue or cheeks due to an overgrowth of the Candida fungus.
This fungus proliferates when the defenses are low, generating white plaques on the tongue and inside the cheeks.
It is very common in young and old people, sick or with immune system problems and for those who wear oral prostheses. However, it is a curable infection.
What are the symptoms?
The main signs and symptoms that appear are:
- Whitish plaques in the mouth.
- Presence of a creamy substance.
- Pain and burning in the affected areas.
- Cracking and redness of the lips.
- Loss of taste.
What are the causes of oral candidiasis?
Oral candidiasis is the result of a proliferation of the Candida fungus and appears when there is a weakening of the immune system due to other diseases, substances such as prednisone or antibiotics that alter the natural balance of microorganisms in the body.
Among those diseases that aggravate the appearance of candidiasis are:
- HIV/Aids: the HIV virus damages and destroys the cells of the immune system.
- Cancer: the disease and treatments, such as chemotherapy, also weaken the immune system and increase the risk of contracting other infections.
- Diabetes saccharin: saliva can contain large amounts of sugar that promote the appearance of candida.
- Vaginal candidiasis: when a pregnant woman has vaginal candidiasis, there is a risk of transmitting the fungus to the baby during delivery.
What is the treatment to be followed?
Treatment can be performed at home with the application of antifungals in the form of gel, liquid or mouthwash. One of the most commonly used is Niestatin and should be given for 5-7 days.
In addition to the treatment, there are also a number of other tips that the patient should follow if he/she wants to accelerate the healing process of the infection, such as:
- Brushing teeth, minimum 3 times a day.
- Use soft bristles.
- Avoid consuming foods with high fat and sugar content.
- Washing the mouth after each meal.
Which specialists treat oral candidiasis?
Specialists in dentistry and stomatology, who are trained experts in oral health, will be responsible for the diagnosis and subsequent treatment.