You Need to Know About Oral Thrush: Here’s Why | 68786 Dentist

68786 dentist

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 our dentist in Wausa, NE thinks 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 dental office in Wausa, NE.

Family 1st Dental of Wausa
Phone: (402) 586-2611
102 South Lincoln Street
Wausa, NE 68786

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Wausa Dental Office

Dentist Wausa

Wausa Location

102 N Lincoln,
Wausa, NE 68786

(402) 586-2611

first-family-dental-dr-img-1

Our Dental News

Dentist Wausa

Bhj29IzunDwQM1BRpqoS6dL0Y9uAlOpIRJ7d3puq

Meet Our Doctor: A Commitment to Quality Care

Family 1st Dental in Wausa is dedicated to providing top-quality dental care with a personal touch. Lead by Dr. Ben Aitken, our practice philosophy centers around patient comfort, education, and community involvement. With a reputation for excellence, Dr. Aitken brings […]

Learn More
Bhj29IzunDwQM1BRpqoS6dL0Y9uAlOpIRJ7d3puq

Understanding CEREC: Same-Day Crowns Explained

The process of receiving dental crowns has significantly evolved over the years, and patients can now benefit from advanced solutions such as CEREC technology. This innovative method allows for the creation of same-day crowns, simplifying treatment and enhancing the overall […]

Learn More
Bhj29IzunDwQM1BRpqoS6dL0Y9uAlOpIRJ7d3puq

The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Well-being

Maintaining oral hygiene is not merely about having a sparkling smile; it has profound implications for overall health. Research has consistently shown that poor oral health can lead to numerous systemic issues, affecting not just the mouth but the body […]

Learn More