Treatment depends on age and symptoms. Under the Common Conditions Service our pharmacists can assess and treat adults and children aged 1 month and over with suspected oral thrush where appropriate. Treatment usually involves an antifungal liquid or gel applied inside the mouth for a number of days, and it is important to continue treatment for the full recommended course, even if symptoms improve sooner.

If symptoms do not improve, keep coming back, last longer than 14 days, or if swallowing becomes painful, referral to a GP may be required for further assessment.

For breastfed babies with oral thrush, both the baby and the mother require treatment at the same time, even if the mother has no symptoms. A topical anti-fungal treatment is available which should be applied to the nipple and areola after every feed. Any visible cream should be wiped off gently prior to the next feed.  .

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There are several simple steps you can take at home to help oral thrush clear and to prevent it coming back:

• Brush teeth twice daily. If you don’t have teeth, gently brush the gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush.
• Replace your toothbrush when starting treatment and again once the infection has cleared.
• Gently brush the tongue from back to front using a soft toothbrush or tongue cleaner if it is coated.
• Rinse the mouth after eating or taking medicines.
• If you use a steroid inhaler, rinse your mouth and spit after each use.
• Avoid over-use of antiseptic mouthwashes, as these can upset the natural balance in the mouth. Warm salt water can be used instead if needed.
• Avoid smoking, as it increases the risk of oral thrush.
• If the mouth is sore, simple pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen may help (ask our pharmacists if suitable for you).

For babies and children

• Offer feeds regularly, even if smaller amounts are taken more often.
• Avoid spicy or acidic foods if these cause discomfort.
• Wash hands regularly to prevent the infection spreading.
• Sterilise dummies, bottle teats, feeding equipment and teething toys frequently.

When to seek further advice

• If symptoms worsen, do not improve, or last longer than 14 days, seek advice from your GP.

If you wear dentures, good denture care is important while treating oral thrush. Dentures should be removed at night, cleaned thoroughly every day using a denture brush and mild soap, and left out for as long as possible to allow the mouth to heal. Dentures should be disinfected regularly with a disinfectant such as Milton diluted 1 part Milton to 10 parts cold water (if there are no metal parts), chlorhexidine may be used undiluted if there are metal parts, for no more than 10 minutes twice per day until signs of thrush are gone. 

If your dentures do not fit well or continue to cause soreness, you should see your dentist for review.