Fungus in the mouth - causes, symptoms and treatment | Dentme

Irritated tongue? Red or whitish coating on the palate? These may be signs of a fungal infection in the mouth, also known as oral candidiasis. The condition is common in young children, the elderly and people with dry mouth or dentures. The earlier you seek help, the easier it is to treat.

"Fungal infections of the mouth are common in people with dry mouth, dentures or compromised immune systems. The earlier you treat it, the easier it is to get rid of the problem."
- Erik, the dentists at Dentme

What is fungus in the mouth?

Fungus in the mouth is caused by an overgrowth of candida - a yeast normally found in the oral flora. Normally, the fungus is kept in check by saliva and good bacteria, but if the balance is upset, the fungus can take over and cause infection.

- The infection is most common in:

- Infants (then called cod)

- Older people

- Prosthetic users

- People with a weakened immune system or dry mouth

What causes fungus in the mouth?

Dry mouth

Saliva protects the oral mucosa. When saliva production decreases - for example due to medication or illness - the risk of infection increases.

Smoking

Tobacco affects the resistance of the mucous membrane and favors fungal growth.

Pharmaceuticals

Antibiotics, cortisone inhalers and some blood pressure or antidepressant medicines can upset the balance in the mouth.

Poor denture hygiene

A dirty or ill-fitting denture can create an environment where fungi thrive - especially if used at night.

Diseases

Diabetes, cancer, HIV and other conditions that affect the immune system increase the risk.

Nutritional deficiency

A lack of iron, folic acid or B vitamins can reduce mucosal protection.

Symptoms of fungus in the mouth

The most common symptoms are:

- White or yellowish deposits on the tongue, cheeks or palate

- Redness, burning or soreness in the mouth

- Irritation under dentures

- Cracks in the corners of the mouth

- Taste changes or discomfort with hot or spicy food

In some cases, especially in smokers, there may be white thickened areas that cannot be scraped off - this is called chronic hyperplastic candidiasis and should always be investigated.

When should you contact your dentist or doctor?

Seek medical attention if you:

- Has white deposits that do not disappear within a week

- Has burning or soreness in the mouth without clear cause

- Userprotests and experience discomfort

- Has a compromised immune system

- Have recurrent infections

Similar symptoms may be due to other conditions, such as geographic tongue, leukoplakia or lichen planus. Therefore, it is important to get the right diagnosis.

How is oral thrush treated?

Treatment depends on the cause and extent of the infection:

- Local treatment: Nystatin in the form of a mouthwash or lozenge is common. For denture-related fungus, chlorhexidine can be used as a supplement.

- Tablet therapy: Fluconazole is used for more widespread infection.

- Adjustment of prosthesis: The dentist may need to resharpen or replace the denture.

- Improved oral hygiene: Brush teeth and tongue thoroughly. Clean dentures daily and use dental floss.

- Saliva stimulation: If your mouth is dry, you may be given saliva stimulants or artificial saliva.

Is fungus in the mouth dangerous?

For most people, the infection is mild and easily treated. But in people with severely compromised immune systems - such as those with neutropenia, cancer treatment or AIDS - the fungus can spread to the throat, esophagus or bloodstream. This requires prompt medical treatment.

How to prevent oral thrush

- Brush your teeth and tongue twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

- Use dental floss or interdental brushes

- Clean removable dentures daily

- Do not sleep with a denture in your mouth

- Rinse your mouth after using a cortisone inhaler

- Avoid smoking and reduce sugar intake

- Drink water regularly

- Follow your dry mouth treatment plan

Frequently asked questions about fungus in the mouth

Is oral thrush contagious?
No, candida is naturally present in the mouth and rarely spreads between healthy people.

Can oral thrush go away on its own?
Mild cases may heal, but it is important to investigate the cause to avoid recurrence.

What is the difference between cod and sponge in the mouth?
Cod is the name for oral candidiasis in infants. It is the same infection but at a different age.

How do I know it's mushrooms and not something else?
Only a dentist or doctor can make the correct diagnosis. Symptoms are similar to other oral diseases.

Can fungus in the mouth cause a sore throat?
Yes, especially if it spreads to the throat. It can lead to difficulty swallowing or sore throat.

Can antibiotics cause oral thrush?
Yes, because antibiotics can kill the good bacteria that keep candida in balance.

How long does the treatment take?
Treatment with nystatin or fluconazole usually takes 7-14 days.

Are there over-the-counter remedies for oral thrush?
No, treatment requires a prescription and should always be preceded by diagnosis.

Can fungus in the mouth be a sign of something serious?
Yes, especially if the infection recurs without a clear cause. In this case, underlying diseases such as diabetes or immunodeficiency should be investigated.

World Health Organization (WHO)
Candidiasis (yeast infection) - Facts overview

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/candidiasis-(yeast-infection)

Arman Ostovan Tandvårdschef och leg. tandläkare

Publicerad: Apr 1, 2025 av Dentme

Updateradd: Jun 5, 2026

Updaterad: Jun 5, 2026

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