Treatment & Prevention of Thrush

Thrush is a yeast infection that occurs in the mouth. Thrush occurs when Candida, a common type of yeast, grows out of control. The main symptom for thrush is pain in the mouth and white patches throughout the mouth and tongue. Fortunately, there are methods of treatment for thrush and modes of prevention.

Treatment for Infants

• Babies are the most common thrush patients. In babies, thrush is often mistaken for milk or baby formula as it appears in white patches in the mouth. For infants, thrush is not serious; it can be quickly remedied with an antifungal liquid. A doctor will need to prescribe this. Babies with thrush are often more susceptible to diaper rash, increasing the need for diaper cream or ointment.

Prevention

• There are certain methods of prevention for infants. Mothers should treat yeast infections thoroughly through the last three months of pregnancy. This will reduce your baby's chances of getting thrush. All bottle nipples, pacifiers and any item that is regularly in your infant's mouth should be washed and cleaned every day. Washing these items in the dishwasher further guarantees their sanitation.

Adult Treatment

• Senior citizens and adults are also susceptible to thrush. For adults, treatment is usually easy. A doctor might prescribe an antifungal liquid or medicinal lozenge to clear up the thrush. If this does not work, a doctor will prescribe an antifungal pill.

Prevention

• Adults can prevent thrush. Practicing good oral hygiene such as brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily greatly reduces your chances of yeast building up in the mouth. If you wear dentures, soak them every night in denture cleaning solution. Scrub dentures with a toothbrush before and after soaking.

  Yeast is even found on your hands. Wash your hands regularly, especially before putting your hands in your mouth. People with HIV or diabetes are more susceptible to thrush than the average person.