What It Is
The term ‘thrush’ is used to refer to oral fungal infection, a type of stomatitis caused by Candida albicans.
Candida albicans is a fungus that normally resides in the human body in a latent form and does not cause symptoms. Under certain conditions, when the physiological balance is disrupted, the environment in which it lives changes. In the case of oral thrush, an acidic oral environment (acidosis) triggers an increase in microbial activity, allowing Candida albicans to shift from a harmless saprophytic organism to a parasitic and aggressive one.
The symptomatic infection, known as candidiasis, can affect different parts of the body, including the mouth (thrush), the vaginal area, the intestines, and the skin.
Oral thrush is very common in newborns, especially during the first six months of breastfeeding, due to the high concentration of lactose in the mouth. It can also occur in children between the ages of 3 and 9, when the immune system is still developing.
Of course, oral candidiasis can also affect adults whenever immune defenses are weakened, such as during pregnancy, following debilitating illnesses, with the use of certain medications (antibiotics or corticosteroids), or in any condition that disrupts the balance of beneficial bacteria.
Signs and Symptoms
Oral thrush initially appears as widespread redness of the mouth and tongue mucosa, which becomes smooth, shiny, and painful. After a few days, small whitish spots or patches – resembling “curdled milk” – may appear. These patches can often be wiped away with a gauze, revealing inflamed underlying mucosa that can be painful when swallowing and may sometimes bleed.
If left untreated, the infection can spread to the uvula, tonsils, and in severe cases, even to the esophagus and respiratory tract.
Remedies
At the first signs of oral thrush, it is important to act – not only to relieve pain and inflammation, but also to restore balance in the oral environment and inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria.
Cariex® dental spray stands out as a completely natural product containing baking soda, xylitol, and hyaluronic acid, and it can even be used in infants.
Baking soda, naturally present in saliva, helps counteract acidity, restore a neutral pH in the mouth, and neutralize fungi and bacteria.
Xylitol, also known as wood sugar, is a natural antibacterial agent that helps prevent plaque formation.
Hyaluronic acid is an excellent lubricant and humectant, ideal for reducing inflammation, soothing pain, and supporting the healing of oral mucosal lesions.
It is recommended to apply 3-4 sprays of Cariex® in the mouth several times a day during the acute phase, and especially after eating or drinking. Its use before bedtime is also advised, as saliva production naturally decreases at night, making the oral environment more acidic.
For infants, 2 sprays of Cariex® are recommended after each feeding.