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Q: Is it true that fungi can grow in your mouth?
A: Yes. In fact, fungi occur naturally in the mouth, just as bacteria and viruses do. Normally they all are kept in check by the body's natural defenses and by your practice of good oral hygiene. Fungi in particular are kept in check by those steps and also by competition with mouth bacteria. Sometimes, however, when the body's balance gets out of whack for one reason or another, the fungi may proliferate out of control and cause an infection.
A fungal infection often occurs after a patient has been treated for a bacterial infection. The antibiotic used for treatment reduces the number of bacteria in the mouth and the fungi thrive. A fungal infection is also common when the body's immune system is weakened for whatever reason. Your dentist can prescribe special antifungal medication in the event of a fungal outbreak.
The most common of all fungal infections is called candidiasis, also known as moniliasis or oral thrush. It's especially common among the very young, the elderly and people who are weakened by other conditions. The main sign is a creamy coating that can appear on any moist surface inside or outside the mouth. Talk with your dentist about ways to keep your mouth's fungi under control.
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