Definition

Oral Candidiasis is a fungal infection of the mouth caused primarily by Candida albicans. It leads to white patches, redness, and discomfort in the oral cavity.

Symptoms

• White, creamy lesions on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, gums, or tonsils

• Redness or soreness in the mouth and throat

• Cracking at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis)

• Loss of taste or unpleasant taste in the mouth

• Pain while eating or swallowing

• Dry mouth

Types

1. Pseudomembranous Candidiasis (Thrush) – Most common; white plaques that can be wiped off.

2. Erythematous (Atrophic) Candidiasis – Red, inflamed areas, often under dentures.

3. Hyperplastic Candidiasis – White patches that cannot be scraped off.

4. Angular Cheilitis – Cracks and redness at the corners of the mouth.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Weak immune system (e.g., HIV, cancer, diabetes)

• Use of inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., asthma inhalers)

• Antibiotic use (disturbs normal oral flora)

• Wearing dentures (especially if not cleaned properly)

• Smoking

• Dry mouth (xerostomia)

• Poor oral hygiene

Diagnosis

• Clinical examination

• Microscopic examination or culture of swabbed lesions

• KOH test or fungal culture

• Biopsy in resistant or suspicious cases

Treatment

Conventional Treatment

• Topical antifungals:

  • Nystatin suspension or lozenges

  • Clotrimazole troches

• Systemic antifungals (for severe cases):

  • Fluconazole

  • Itraconazole

Home Remedies

• Rinsing with warm salt water

• Baking soda mouth rinse

• Yogurt or probiotics (to restore good bacteria)

• Coconut oil pulling (antifungal properties)

Homeopathic Options

• Borax – For white patches with heat and tenderness

• Candida albicans – Often used for chronic candidiasis

• Merc Sol – For mouth ulcers with excessive salivation

• Kali chloricum – For ulcerative stomatitis

(Consult a certified homeopath before use)

Ayurvedic Options

• Triphala mouth rinse – Antimicrobial effect

• Turmeric milk – Anti-inflammatory and antifungal

• Neem (Azadirachta indica) – Antifungal and purifying properties

• Honey with turmeric paste – Applied locally for mild cases

Prevention

• Maintain good oral hygiene

• Rinse mouth after using inhaled corticosteroids

• Limit sugar and yeast-containing foods

• Disinfect dentures regularly

• Stay hydrated

• Treat underlying conditions like diabetes