Nice Teeth Aren’t An Accident

Posted on: 13 January 2021

If your dentist discovers white, raised patches inside of your mouth, he or she may suspect that you have an oral yeast infection. Also known as candidiasis and thrush, oral yeast infections can be caused by a number of various factors. While your dentist may recommend seeing your primary care physician to determine the cause of your oral infection, he or she may also recommend the following interventions that will help clear your infection and prevent future oral yeast infections from developing. 

Keep Blood Glucose Levels In Check

It is thought that people with poorly managed diabetes mellitus, or type II diabetes, may be at a greater risk for developing yeast or fungal infections, including those of the oral cavity. If your dental exam reveals white plaques that burn or bleed, your dental professional may recommend that you follow your diabetic therapeutic diet, take all of your prescribed diabetes medication, maintain a healthy weight, and enjoy regular exercise. These interventions will help keep your blood glucose levels in check, lowering your risk for oral candidiasis.

You will also be informed about the importance of getting regular dental examinations and professional teeth cleanings. Maintaining a good routine of oral hygiene and seeking regular dental care will help lower the risk for oral yeast infections in the general population, including those who have diabetes.

Be Mindful Of Antibiotic Side Effects

Another recommendation your dental professional may suggest is to try and limit your use of antibiotics. Antibiotics not only help eliminate the "bad" bacteria responsible for your infection, but they can also wipe out the "good" bacteria in your gut that plays a role in a healthy immune system. When good gut bacteria is eliminated as a result of taking antibiotics, you may be more susceptible to oral yeast infections.

If your physician prescribes antibiotics for an infection, consider eating yogurt, which will help repopulate your body with friendly bacteria and help prevent yeast infections inside your mouth.

Dentists often prescribe the antibiotic doxycycline for tooth abscesses and oral surgery. This powerful antibiotic not only has the potential to heighten your risk for abdominal pain and diarrhea, but it can also contribute to oral candidiasis infections. Instead of yogurt, your dentist may recommend taking an over-the-counter probiotic to lower your risk for oral thrush infections while taking doxycycline.

If notice white patchy areas inside your mouth, make an appointment with your dentist. After your examination, he or she will determine if you have an oral yeast infection and will then recommend an effective treatment plan.