What Does Yeast in the Mouth Look Like?

Mouth yeast infections are caused by candida albicans, a fungus or yeast that lives naturally in the mouth. Sometimes, candida over-proliferates in the mouth and causes infections (candidiasis.) There are four types of mouth yeast infections: Mouth thrush, erythematous, hyperplastic and angular cheilitis. All manifest themselves in different ways.

Types of Symptoms

Mouth thrush appears as patchy, creamy white or yellow bumps inside the walls of the mouth and tongue. Sometimes, if you rub these bumps, they can bleed. Erythematous looks like a red patch that is located on the palate or tongue.

Other Types of Symptoms

Chronic hyperplastic usually appears as a reddish discolored stain that cannot be removed. This condition is common with tobacco users, but it can also be caused by certain foods.

Effects of Angulur Cheilitis

Angulur cheilitis causes red cracks on both corners of a person's mouth. These cracks are often covered with a thin membrane.

Significance

It is often difficult to get rid of these oral symptoms as they can be caused by systemic reactions to certain antibiotics and corticosteroids.

Treatment

The sores or patches in the mouth can be so sensitive that typical oral hygiene can be painful. Anti-fungal drops in the form of lozenges or suspensions are the most common treatments for mouth yeast.

References

• Yeast-Infection-Bible.com: Mouth Yeast Infection -- Types, Cause And Symptoms
• Disabled World: Tips to Cure a Yeast Infection
• eMedicineHealth.com: Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)

Resources

• The University of Iowa Libraries: Thrush, Oral (Adult)
• NHS.uk: Oral thrush - adults
• NetDoctor.co.uk: Oral thrush (fungal infection in the mouth)