Oral Thrush:
Symptoms,
Causes and Treatment

Oral thrush is a fungal infection in the mouth caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast. It commonly causes creamy white patches on the tongue, gums, inner cheeks, or roof of the mouth, along with redness and soreness.¹ Most cases can be treated with antifungal medications prescribed by a healthcare professional³, while good oral hygiene may help reduce the risk of recurrence.²

Although it can affect anyone, oral thrush is more common in people with weakened immune systems, those taking certain medications, denture wearers, babies and older adults.¹

What is Oral Thrush?

Oral thrush is an infection that develops when Candida yeast grows beyond normal levels in the mouth. It most commonly appears on the tongue and inner cheeks but can also affect the roof of the mouth, gums, tonsils and throat.¹
 

Small amounts of Candida are naturally present in many healthy mouths. Problems occur when factors such as medications, illness or changes in health conditions allow the yeast to multiply more rapidly than normal.¹

What are Some Oral Thrush Symptoms?

Oral thrush symptoms can range from mild irritation to painful mouth sores. Many people first notice white patches, but redness, burning and changes in taste are also common.

Other oral thrush symptoms may include:¹

 

• creamy white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth or tonsils
• slightly raised patches that resemble cottage cheese
• redness, burning or soreness that may make it difficult to eat or swallow
• slight bleeding if the patches or spots are rubbed or scraped
• cracking and redness in the corners of the mouth
• a cottony sensation in the mouth
• loss of taste

What Causes Oral Thrush?

Oral thrush develops when normal checks and balances in the mouth are disrupted, allowing Candida to overgrow.¹

It can also be caused by:²
 

• antibiotic treatment
• wearing dentures
• a weakened immune system
• dry mouth
• other diseases, such as diabetes or leukemia

Is Oral Thrush the Same as Gingivitis?

No. Oral thrush and gingivitis are different conditions.

Oral thrush is caused by fungal overgrowth, while gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease caused by plaque buildup around the gums.²

Because both conditions can cause redness, soreness and irritation, it can be difficult to tell them apart. However, both develop – and are treated – very differently.
 

Symptom	Oral Thrush1	Gingivitis2
White patches in the mouth	Yes	No
Red or sore gums	Possible	Yes
Bleeding gums	Possible	Yes
Plaque buildup at gumline	Possible	Yes
Burning sensation	Yes	Less common
Bad breath	Possible	Yes
Fungal infection	Yes	No
Bacterial plaque involvement	No	Yes

If you’re experiencing symptoms such as swollen or bleeding gums, maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine and visiting your dentist can help identify the underlying cause.

Is Oral Thrush Contagious?

For most adults, oral thrush is generally not considered contagious. The Candida yeast that causes oral thrush commonly exists in many people’s mouths without causing symptoms. Oral thrush typically develops when conditions allow the yeast to overgrow, rather than from person-to-person transmission.²

How to Get Rid of Oral Thrush

Most cases of oral thrush require treatment with prescription antifungal medications recommended by a healthcare provider. Depending on the severity, treatment may include antifungal mouth rinses, lozenges or oral medications.²

Your provider may also recommend addressing the underlying cause, such as improving denture hygiene, managing diabetes or rinsing your mouth after using an inhaled corticosteroid. Maintaining good oral hygiene during treatment can also support overall oral health.¹

Can Oral Thrush Affect Your Gums?

Although oral thrush primarily affects the soft tissues of the mouth, it can also cause symptoms that involve the gums.¹

Can Oral Thrush Make Your Gums Sore and Swollen?

Yes. Oral thrush can cause redness, tenderness and irritation that may make your gums feel sore or swollen. The fungal infection can affect the gums along with the tongue, inner cheeks, and roof of the mouth.¹

Why are My Gums Bleeding if I Have Oral Thrush?

Oral thrush can sometimes cause minor bleeding if the white patches become irritated or are rubbed.¹ However, bleeding gums are more commonly associated with gingivitis, which is caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. If you're experiencing frequent or persistent bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing, it may be a sign of gum disease rather than oral thrush. A dental professional can help identify the cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.

How to Prevent Oral Thrush

While oral thrush may not always be prevented, certain habits may reduce your risk:¹
 

• brush your teeth twice daily using a toothpaste such as parodontax Complete Protection
• floss every day
• maintain regular dental checkups
• remove and clean dentures as directed
• limit your sugar intake
• manage chronic conditions such as diabetes
• stay hydrated if you’re prone to dry mouth
• rinse your mouth after using inhaled corticosteroids

When Should You See a Healthcare Provider?

If you notice white patches or spots in your mouth,¹ have trouble swallowing³ or have sore, swollen, or bleeding gums, consult your dentist or healthcare provider for treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is oral thrush?

Oral thrush is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast in the mouth. It often appears as creamy white patches on the tongue, gums, inner cheeks or roof of the mouth and may cause redness, soreness or difficulty swallowing.

Is oral thrush contagious?

Oral thrush is generally not considered contagious. However, the Candida fungus can sometimes spread through close contact in certain situations, particularly among breastfeeding mothers and infants.

Can oral thrush come back after treatment?

Yes. Oral thrush can return after treatment if the underlying cause isn't addressed. Common reasons for recurring oral thrush include wearing dentures that aren't properly cleaned, using inhaled corticosteroids without rinsing your mouth afterward, uncontrolled diabetes, dry mouth or a weakened immune system.ⁱⁱⁱ In addition to completing any prescribed antifungal treatment, addressing these risk factors may help reduce the chance of recurrence.

Can oral thrush make my gums sore and swollen?

Yes. Oral thrush can cause redness, tenderness and irritation that may affect the gums.

How do you get rid of oral thrush?

Treatment typically involves prescription antifungal medications recommended by a dental healthcare provider. Maintaining good oral hygiene, cleaning dentures properly, rinsing after using inhaled corticosteroids and managing underlying health conditions may also help reduce recurrence.

Can oral thrush cause bleeding gums?

Oral thrush may cause slight bleeding if white patches become irritated or are scraped. Please see a dental healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

How can you help prevent oral thrush?

You may reduce your risk by brushing twice daily, flossing every day, cleaning dentures properly, staying hydrated, rinsing after using inhaled corticosteroids, managing chronic conditions like diabetes, and visiting your dentist regularly.