Oral candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by excessive growth of Candida species in the mouth. It ranges from mild, temporary plaques to recurrent or more widespread disease and is more common in infants, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Oral candidiasis occurs when Candida fungi multiply on the lining of the mouth. It may appear as white, cottage‑cheese–like patches or as red, sore areas. Lesions commonly affect the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth and corners of the mouth and can sometimes form a white coating on the tongue.
Common signs include white‑cream spots in the mouth, burning or soreness, changes in taste, mild difficulty swallowing and general mouth sensitivity. Babies may show feeding difficulties or fussiness. Seek urgent care if you or someone else develops high fever, severe pain, trouble swallowing or breathing.
Risk factors include infancy and older age, diabetes, conditions or treatments that weaken the immune system (for example chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy), recent broad‑spectrum antibiotics, inhaled corticosteroid use, dry mouth, use of dentures that aren’t cleaned or fitted properly, smoking and poor nutrition.
Diagnosis is most often made by clinical examination. If needed, a swab from the mouth can be examined under a microscope or cultured. Begin with your family doctor or a dentist. Recurrent, widespread or hard‑to‑control cases may be referred to Ear Nose and Throat specialists (ENT), Dermatology and Venereal Diseases, or Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology for further assessment. Call emergency services for breathing or severe swallowing problems.
Maintain good oral hygiene, clean and fit dentures correctly, stay hydrated to reduce dry mouth, manage blood sugar if diabetic, avoid unnecessary antibiotics, and rinse the mouth after using inhaled steroids. Regular dental checkups and quitting smoking can also lower risk.
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