What You Need to Know About Oral Thrush and How to Prevent It | Dentist 60137

Dentist Glen Ellyn

At Kerger Family Dental, we believe that understanding potential oral health concerns can empower you to take better care of your mouth. While a healthy mouth naturally contains bacteria and fungi, an overgrowth can lead to issues such as oral thrush. If you're looking for reliable care from a Dentist in Glen Ellyn, we're here to guide you through prevention and treatment. Here's everything you need to know about oral thrush and how to keep it at bay.

What Is Oral Thrush?
Oral thrush is an infection caused by the buildup of Candida, a type of fungus, in your mouth. While it's normal for this fungus to be present in small amounts, an overgrowth can lead to noticeable symptoms. Oral thrush often appears as thick, white patches on the tongue or inner cheeks and may resemble patchy, white sores.

Who Is at Risk?
Oral thrush can affect anyone but is more common in certain groups. Infants, young children, and older adults are at higher risk due to potentially weaker immune systems. If you have diabetes, a compromised immune system, or are a smoker, you have an increased likelihood of developing oral thrush. These factors can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and fungi in your mouth, making you more susceptible.

What Are the Symptoms?
Oral thrush can start with mild symptoms but may worsen over time. Common signs include difficulty swallowing, a burning sensation, and changes in taste. The affected areas may feel like they are coated with cotton, and if the patches are scraped, they might bleed slightly. Left untreated, oral thrush can spread beyond the mouth and affect the throat, digestive tract, and even the lungs and heart, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Preventing Oral Thrush
The best prevention for oral thrush is a strong oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing your teeth thoroughly twice a day, flossing, and cleaning your tongue daily. At Kerger Family Dental, we may recommend using a tongue scraper to remove excess bacteria and fungi effectively. Keeping your tongue as clean as your teeth helps maintain overall oral health.

The American Dental Association suggests that antimicrobial toothpaste or mouthwash can be beneficial for some individuals. Consult with our Dentist in Glen Ellyn to determine if these products are suitable for your needs.

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups
Routine dental exams play a crucial role in preventing oral health issues, including thrush. This is especially vital for individuals with diabetes, as their condition can contribute to a higher risk of infections. By scheduling regular visits to Kerger Family Dental, our team can monitor your oral health and provide proactive care to prevent problems like thrush.

For more tips on maintaining a healthy mouth or to schedule your next dental visit with a trusted Dentist in Glen Ellyn, reach out to Kerger Family Dental today. We're committed to keeping your smile healthy and thriving!

Kerger Family Dental
Phone: 630-984-4050
279 Roosevelt Road
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

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