Candida is a naturally occurring yeast that is often found in the mouth. Candida is considered to be a "good" bacteria, says KidsHealth.org. However, an overgrowth of candida can cause an infection called thrush. There are a number of reasons why this type of overgrowth occurs. Typical thrush cases affect children under the age of six months, but anyone can experience such an infection. Oral thrush can be identified by a culture swab, but there may also be visible white patches on the throat and in the mouth. Treatment consists of an oral antifungal medication for several days, as prescribed by a doctor.
Antibiotics
KidsHealth.org suggests one of the common reasons an infant or newborn may develop thrush in the mouth is the use of antibiotics. These medications can disrupt the normal balance of the yeast and cause an overgrowth. The ailment that lead to the use of antibiotics may also weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to manage the yeast growth. Other children and adults can develop oral thrush for the same reasons.
Hygiene
An infant who is breastfeeding can contract thrush if the mother has a yeast infection of the nipples. This can happen as a result of poor hygiene. Both the mother and baby have to be treated in order for them to stop passing the infection back and forth. Formula-fed babies and those who use a pacifier can also contract oral thrush from improper cleansing of the materials. Anything that is placed into the mouth and then improperly washed can create the ideal environment for yeast to thrive. Yeast prefer moist and dark places.
Weakened Immune System
Any illness that weakens the body's immune system can cause oral thrush for the same reason that antibiotics can. When the immune system is weakened, the body struggles to fight off excess yeast. The Mayo Clinic suggests that some common illnesses that lead to a higher susceptibility of thrush include HIV/AIDS, cancer and diabetes mellitus. The National Institutes of Health also states that being very old or in poor health can increase the risk of contracting oral thrush.
Vaginal Yeast
A mother with a vaginal yeast infection can pass the fungus to the baby during delivery. This can cause oral thrush. It is also possible for sexual partners to develop oral thrush by participating in oral sex with a woman who has a vaginal yeast infection, but the chances are not great unless the partner has a weakened immune system.
Diabetes
Yeast prefers sugars. An individual with diabetes has a high level of sugar in the blood and in the saliva. This sugar can help feed the yeast in the mouth, allowing it to proliferate and lead to an infection, says the National Institutes of Health.
