Treatment for Mouth Thrush

Thrush in your mouth is also called oral thrush and is caused by a fungus called Candida. It can occur in people of any age. Symptoms of thrush in your mouth include pain, itchiness and bleeding, and thrush can spread into your throat and tonsils. According to the Mayo Clinic and the National Library of Medicine, treatments for oral thrush include antifungal medications and ointments.

Gentian Violet

Gentian violet is an over-the-counter antifungal ointment that can be used to treat thrush in the mouth of an infant, and it can be applied to the mother's breast if the infant is nursing.

Yogurt

Yogurt that is unsweetened and contains active bacterial cultures is a natural treatment for oral thrush that can be used for infants, children and adults.

Vinegar

Using a 50 percent solution of vinegar and water to clean toothbrushes, nipples on baby bottles and pacifiers can stop thrush from spreading.

Acidophilis

Acidophilus is a dietary supplement that can be taken by adults as a pill or liquid and can eliminate thrush from your mouth.

Antifungals

Antifungal medications such as fluconazole or lotrimin may be prescribed by your doctor to treat oral thrush if your infection is severe.

Amphotericin B

Amphotericin B is an antifungal medication that may be prescribed by your doctor to treat thrush in your mouth if you have an immune system disorder such as HIV.

Resources

• National Library of Medicine: Thrush