Denture wearers who develop stomatitis, or mild inflammation of the oral membrane, have thrush in about 90% of cases. It’s normal to have small amounts of candida in your mouth. But when there’s an imbalance, the candida can grow out of control, resulting in a fungal infection.
Stomatitis caused by candida is also commonly referred to as thrush. Here’s how to prevent oral thrush from affecting you if you wear dentures.
Causes of Oral Thrush
Improper cleaning, neglect, and failing to remove the denture overnight are the most common cause of oral thrush.
Additionally taking antibiotics, eating a diet high in carbohydrates, dry mouth, and immune system issues can be factors.
Irritation of the tissue and bacterial invasion can lead to stomatitis and thrush in individuals that wear dentures.
Symptoms of Oral Thrush
Oral thrush always causes symptoms, but they can vary in severity and duration.
Those symptoms are:
- Raised white lesions that resemble cottage cheese on your tongue, inner cheeks, gums, the roof of your mouth, and tonsils
- Mouth redness or soreness
- Mouth bleeding
- Loss of taste
- Feeling like your mouth is full of cotton
- Difficulty eating and swallowing if lesions spread to your throat or esophagus
Diagnosis and Treatment
An exam is often necessary to diagnose thrush effectively. In cases where a visual exam is not sufficient, a swab culture is required to diagnose.
It’s critical to proceed with treatment as soon as possible to contain the infection. You dentist will likely recommend medication and use of antimicrobial mouth wash rinse. The denture itself also must be thoroughly cleaned and removed overnight. Each morning the denture should be properly rinsed before use.
Know When To See Your Dentist
At home remedies may help to relieve the symptoms, but they won’t cure yeast infections on their own.
If left untreated a simple infection can become much dangerous, especially in elderly patients with weak immune system
If you have any symptoms of oral thrush, or if your dentures are not fitting correctly, be sure to ask Dr. Shurova at your next appointment. Call to schedule today!
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Office Text: 813-624-5036
Or find us on Facebook or Instagram
Instagram: @mydentaltampa
