When we talk about infections, the ones that spread in the mouth are often taken lightly. However, they do not know that an infection in the oral cavity can be equally troublesome. In this blog, we have laid down various bacterial, viral or fungal infections that manifest in the mouth.
A Mouth infection can be because of both viruses and bacterial load. Here are some common issues that are linked with them.
Types of mouth infection
Infection in the mouth either bacterial or not, is fairly common and can easily be treated if catered to on time. Here are a few examples of symptoms and possible treatment methods.
Tonsil Stones
Tonsils are the gland found at the back of your throat. It helps the body to fight infections caused due to bacterial load or viruses. When the bacteria and debris accumulate and stick together on the outer side of it, they form stones known as tonsil stones.
Symptoms
- inflammation and swelling of the tonsils
- pain during swallowing
- sore throat
- cough
- pain in the ear
- white material or debris at the back of the throat
- bad breath due to the entrapment of sulfur gas in the tonsils
Treatment
Due to the heavy load of bacteria in the mouth, larger stones may form. In such a case, surgical removal might become necessary. Antibiotics are also prescribed to clear bacterial infections in the mouth.
Saltwater rinse comes in handy when the stones are smaller in size.
Cavities
Also known as dental caries, are holes formed inside the tooth due to bacterial infection inside the mouth. Streptococcus mutans feed on the sugary matters left on the tooth. Brushing regularly can easily prevent it from happening.
Oral thrush
Apart from bacterial and viral invasion, the fungus can also cause infection in the mouth. Candida is a fungus naturally present in the mouth. Accumulation of this organism can lead to a condition named oral thrush.
The white sore-like structure grows on the tongue, tonsils, roof of the mouth, or back of the throat. These white lesions make it difficult to eat or swallow.
Prevention
Candida, since it is a natural inhabitant of the mouth, can be prevented with few easy steps
- Brush at least twice and floss once a day.
- Use alcohol-free mouthwash to clean all the excess fungal and bacterial debris in the mouth.
- Decrease the intake of sugary food and beverages.
- In the case of dentures, clean them daily.
Treatment
Dentists prescribe antifungal drugs like fluconazole, clotrimazole, or nystatin for treatment.
Hand foot and mouth disease
This disease is a result of the coxsackievirus A16 virus. It causes rashes and blisters around the mouth, hand, and feet. Along with blisters, other symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, and fever are also seen.
Treatment
There is no particular treatment for this disease; it goes away with time. Since a virus causes it, antibiotics would not work. But, painkillers like acetaminophen can help to relieve symptoms.
Conclusion
Prevention is better than cure. Bacteria or viruses that may cause infection in the mouth can be stopped by maintaining a good oral hygiene regime, washing hands thoroughly, using fluoride toothpaste, and regular dental checkups. Dentists at Friendswood Smiles Orthodontics and Dentistry are experts in treating various diseases of the mouth. Call now at 832 895 1905 for an appointment.