South Sioux City NE Dentist | You Need to Know About Oral Thrush: Here’s Why

South Sioux City NE Dentist | You Need to Know About Oral Thrush: Here’s Why

Even a healthy mouth is lined with bacteria. Normally, your daily oral hygiene routine helps prevent oral health complications. However, it is possible to develop an excess of bacteria and fungi, which can lead to additional problems. Here’s what you should know about oral thrush and what you can do to prevent it.

What is it?

Oral thrush is caused by a collection of the fungus Candida in your mouth. Bacteria and fungi occur naturally in your mouth, but it is important that they are not permitted to build up. Thrush can appear as white, thick scrapes on your tongue or inner cheek. It may also look like patchy, white sores.

Who does it affect?

Young children, infants, and the elderly are at a higher risk of developing oral thrush. If you have a weakened immune system or diabetes, it is even more important that you stay active to keep your mouth healthy and prevent issues like oral thrush. Smokers also tend to develop oral thrush more than other patients.

What can it do?

Oral thrush can lead to trouble swallowing and tasting. As it develops, it can become painful. Oral thrush can make affected areas feel like they are burning, and slight bleeding can occur if you are scraping your tongue or cheeks. Some describe the feeling as having cotton in their mouth.

Thrush can spread. If you have a weakened immune system, it is possible that thrush moves into your lungs, digestive tract, and even your heart.

How can I prevent It?

Our best recommendation for preventing oral thrush is a vigilant daily oral hygiene routine that includes a thorough brushing and flossing of your teeth, and includes your tongue. We sometimes recommend a patient use a tongue scraper to clean your tongue. Just like brushing your teeth, your tongue depends on daily cleaning to stay healthy and free of germs and bacteria.

The American Dental Association recommends that for some patients it might be helpful to consider an antimicrobial toothpaste or mouthwash. Check with our doctor to see which solutions might be best for you.

We cannot overstate the importance of regularly scheduled dental exams. If you are a diabetic, it is even more important that you schedule regular visits to our office. By having your mouth checked by our staff, we can work with you to prevent oral health issues like thrush.

For more tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next visit, please contact our office.

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our South Sioux City Dental Office

Dentist South Sioux City

South Sioux City Location

3220 Plaza Drive,
South Sioux City, NE 68776

(402) 494-2144

Screen Shot 2019-07-23 at 11.11.46 AM

Our Dental News

Dentist South Sioux City

3P2aXB4wX8hKRa7KuXshcu883SLfOy085F30e8LZ

The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings: Why Family 1st Dental is Your Best Choice

Oral cancer screenings are an essential component of routine dental care, yet they often receive less attention than other dental procedures. Regular screenings play a vital role in detecting oral cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable. […]

Learn More
3P2aXB4wX8hKRa7KuXshcu883SLfOy085F30e8LZ

Experience Precision and Comfort with Laser Assisted Dentistry at Family 1st Dental

Choosing the right dental care can significantly impact overall health and well-being. At Family 1st Dental located at 3220 Plaza Drive, South Sioux City, NE 68776, patients have access to advanced dental solutions, including Laser Assisted Dentistry. This innovative approach […]

Learn More
3P2aXB4wX8hKRa7KuXshcu883SLfOy085F30e8LZ

Enhancing Oral Health: The Importance of Flossing and Why to Choose Family 1st Dental

Incorporating flossing into daily dental routines significantly enhances oral health. Flossing removes food particles and plaque that toothbrushes often miss, particularly between teeth and along the gumline. This practice can prevent issues such as cavities and gum disease, which can […]

Learn More