Oral thrush
What is Oral Thrush?
What is Oral Thrush?
Oral thrush is a common fungal infection in the mouth that can cause white patches, soreness, and discomfort. While usually mild, it can interfere with eating, speaking, and overall comfort if left untreated. Our caring team at Genesis Dental provides gentle, effective treatment options to restore your oral health and comfort.
Book now to receive tailored care for oral thrush in Perth.
Common Causes of Oral Thrush
Oral thrush occurs when natural yeast (Candida) overgrows in the mouth. Contributing factors include:
Weakened immunity (illness, medications, or medical treatments).
Antibiotic use that disrupts natural bacteria.
Corticosteroid inhalers for asthma or COPD.
Dentures that are ill-fitting or not cleaned regularly.
Smoking and excessive alcohol use.
Poorly controlled diabetes.
Symptoms of Oral Thrush
Oral thrush may cause:
White, creamy patches on the tongue, cheeks, gums, or palate.
Redness, soreness, or burning sensations.
Cracks at the corners of the mouth.
Loss of taste or unpleasant taste.
Difficulty swallowing in more severe cases.
Irritability and feeding challenges in infants.
Our Treatments for Oral Thrush
At Genesis Dental, we provide professional care to clear oral thrush and prevent it from returning. Treatments may include:
Topical antifungal medication such as gels or mouth rinses.
Oral antifungal tablets for persistent cases.
Denture adjustments and hygiene advice for denture wearers.
Guidance on managing underlying conditions such as diabetes or dry mouth.
We’ll assess your symptoms and create a personalised treatment plan for fast relief. See us for a check-up to get your oral health back on track.
At-Home Care and Management
Alongside professional treatment, you can ease discomfort at home by:
Brushing and flossing daily.
Cleaning dentures thoroughly and removing them at night.
Rinsing your mouth with water after using inhalers.
Using mild salt water rinses for relief.
Limiting sugary foods and drinks.
Drinking water regularly to maintain saliva flow.
How To Prevent Oral Thrush
To reduce the risk of thrush returning:
Maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
Keep dentures clean and ensure a proper fit.
Rinse thoroughly after steroid inhaler use.
Manage chronic health conditions such as diabetes.
Reduce smoking and alcohol intake.
When Should I See a Dentist for Oral Thrush
You should seek professional help if:
White patches in your mouth persist for more than a few days.
You experience pain, burning, or swallowing difficulty.
Thrush recurs regularly.
Your infant has feeding problems due to suspected thrush.
You wear dentures and notice ongoing soreness.
Associations
Our dentists are members of reputable dental associations, including the Australian Dental Association WA (ADAWA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). We are also accredited by QIP, meaning our practice adheres to industry guidelines and regulations.
We accept all health funds, claimable on the spot for your convenience. We are preferred providers with HBF, HCF, CBHS and NIB, meaning you can maximise your rebate.
We also provide interest free payment plan options via The Tooth Market’s Fund My Dental. We also participate in government aided programs such as the Child Dental Benefits Scheme and provide top quality treatment for Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) card holders.
Meet Our Team
Dr. Serene Ong
Dentist
Dr. Ben Luu
Dentist
Dr. Ashleigh Furfaro
Dentist
Dr. Jun Liew
Dentist
Fatima Akbari
Oral Health Therapist
Oral Thrush FAQ's
Is oral thrush contagious?
It is not usually contagious among healthy adults but can spread between infants and breastfeeding mothers.
Will oral thrush go away on its own?
Mild cases may improve, but most benefit from antifungal treatment to avoid recurrence.
Can I use over-the-counter products for thrush?
Some antifungal gels are available, but persistent or recurring symptoms should always be assessed by a dentist.
How long does treatment take?
Most cases clear within 1–2 weeks with antifungal treatment.
How do I know if it’s thrush or something else?
Thrush usually wipes away to reveal redness underneath, unlike conditions such as leukoplakia, which require different treatment.
Contact Us
If you suspect you or your child has oral thrush, don’t wait for it to worsen. Our experienced team will provide fast, effective care and practical advice to restore your comfort.
Book your appointment with Genesis Dental today and smile with confidence again.