Oral Candidiasis is the fungal infection to the mucous membrane in the mouth. It is commonly caused by a type of fungi called Candida albican. The candidiasis can occur on the tongue, cheek, corner of the lips. Dentist can verify the infection by taking samples from the infected area and take to the lab for culturing. Through culturing and examination under microscope, dentist can verify the infection.
The cause of candidiasis is infection by yeast or fungi organisms in the mouth. The fungal infection could be due to the decreased immune system, medication affecting the immune system, systemic diseases, innate immunal deficiency, radiotherapy, leukemia, hormonal imbalance, diabetes, etc. Dentally, inadequate oral hygiene, improper cleaning of the denture, and smoking can also cause candidiasis.
Oral candidiases can be treated with the antifungal medication (such as mycostatin, clotrimazole, fluconazole, etc) and also medicated mouth rinse (such as nystatin mouth rinse.)
Dentist can perform checkup and detect occurrence of candidiasis.
Written by Daniel Tee, DDS, MS
Practicing Family Dentist Serving Tempe, Chandler, Mesa, Phoenix, Gilbert in Arizona
