Oral thrush in adults is an infection that occurs as a result of the prodigious build up of a fungus called Candida in the mouth. Typically oral thrush will lead to white inflammations on the tongue and cheek that ache.

Although this condition can affect anyone it is more likely to trouble those with false teeth, anemia, diabetes or a weak immune system which can make it harder to treat. In some extreme examples the infection can extend to the oesophagus in which case your medical practitioner may conduct a throat culture to figure out what specific microorganisms are responsible for the infection, generally speaking Candida bacteria that reach your esophagus should be treated without delay.

Oral thrush can take a while to develop. Initial evidence of an oral thrush infection will be white lesions, which typically have a cottage cheese like texture, that coat the tongue and inner cheeks before spreading to the roof of the mouth, gums and tonsils. Splitting at the corners of your mouth, difficulty in tasting, a dehydrated mouth and pain are further indications. In very severe cases that affect your oesophagus then it will be difficult to swallow.

Antibiotics, which have the effect of upsetting your natural bacteria levels, can increase the possibility of acquiring thrush. Similarly, the HIV/AIDS complex impairs the immune system and opens you up to opportunistic infections like thrush. Chemotherapy following cancer treatment can also compromise your immune system which boosts your chance of developing thrush. For those with diabetes, your saliva can contain sugars which provides an opportune environment for candida to thrive.

Except in the case of extreme oesophagul infections natural remedies give you the best chance of long term success. Most often, doctors will advocate the use of an antifungal pharmaceutical but the danger is that certain antifungal medications can damage you liver. Mouthwashes and sprays can alter the balance of flora in the mouth and should be avoided. The best way to approach the problem is to try and alter the natural internal bacteria balance of your body by using unsweetened yoghurt and acidophilus tablets. Likewise, limiting the amount of sugar and yeast containing foods in your diet, you can help to ward off thrush.

Additional straight forward home remedies such as gargling with salt and water, brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day and switching your toothbrush often until the candida has disappeared are good precautions to take. Also, try sloshing a half tablespoon of extra virgin coconut oil around your mouth for five minutes remembering to spit it out. You can also add four drops of tea tree oil into warm water and do the same thing. These natural remedies are always a more suitable choice when it comes to treating oral thrush because of the drawbacks connected with using antifungal medications.