Oral thrush is a fungal infection most likely to affect the mouths of babies and denture wearers. Thrush is characterized by small, white blisters on the tongue, the inside of the cheeks and the roof of the mouth. It is not serious unless you have a compromised immune system, but it is contagious. There are several treatment options available, including simply letting the infection run its course. This can take two to three weeks. One of the most commonly used home remedies for oral thrush is buttermilk.
Thrush Causes
Thrush is caused by an overabundance of yeast in your mouth. This can occur when you take strong antibiotics, when you have diabetes or any other time when the healthy bacteria in your mouth is out of balance, causing a higher presence of sugar. Babies, who often fall asleep with milk in their mouths, are prone to contracting oral thrush.
Thrush Treatments
Thrush will run its course if left alone in a healthy individual, and is only considered a cause for concern in infants if the infection lasts for more than two weeks. Antifungal treatments can be prescribed, and an antifungal cream is often recommended for nursing mothers. The Mayo Clinic recommends unsweetened yogurt for thrush, as acidophilus capsules or liquids. Buttermilk contains acidophilus.
Buttermilk Facts
Buttermilk is the liquid that is left over after butter is hand-churned. Despite its rich-sounding name, buttermilk is low in fat. It is also high in protein and contains live acidophilus cultures, if allowed to ferment naturally. Modern buttermilk is fermented artificially. Buttermilk does not destroy the infection, but it can help restore the healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth, making it less friendly to the infection.
Warning
Consult your health provider instead of diagnosing or treating thrush at home. If left untreated in a person with a compromised immune system, the infection can spread throughout the rest of the body.
