WHAT IS DENTURE STOMATITIS (THRUSH)? Denture stomatitis is caused by a yeast or fungus called candida. It is not an infection that we get or pass on to others, because we all have some candida in our mouths. Thrush can appear in other parts of the body, but when it affects the mouth it may be called denture stomatitis." Who can get denture stomatitis? Denture wearers are most likely to be affected, along with people who have problems keeping their mouth clean. Diabetics and anyone who takes steroids, either through inhalers or by mouth, may also have problems. In addition, some antibiotics are responsible for causing thrush. Many people find that taking certain antibiotics encourages the infection to come back, especially if the drugs are taken over a long period of time. How can the dentist recognize it? When the denture is taken out, your dental team may be able to see a very red area under the denture. There may also be red sore areas at the corner of the lips. Why does denture stomatitis need treating? If untreated, the condition can cause soreness in the mouth and may lead to poorly fitting dentures in the future. How is denture stomatitis treated? Good oral hygiene-It is important to keep your mouth as clean as possible and rinse your mouth and dentures after meals. Smoking encourages the growth of further yeast infections. Keeping your denture as clean as possible. Keep your dentures out of your mouth as much as possible, and definitely overnight. Some yeast infections will clear up completely if you don't wear your dentures at night for twó weeks. Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CL1764313 WHAT IS DENTURE STOMATITIS (THRUSH)? Denture stomatitis is caused by a yeast or fungus called candida. It is not an infection that we get or pass on to others, because we all have some candida in our mouths. Thrush can appear in other parts of the body, but when it affects the mouth it may be called denture stomatitis." Who can get denture stomatitis? Denture wearers are most likely to be affected, along with people who have problems keeping their mouth clean. Diabetics and anyone who takes steroids, either through inhalers or by mouth, may also have problems. In addition, some antibiotics are responsible for causing thrush. Many people find that taking certain antibiotics encourages the infection to come back, especially if the drugs are taken over a long period of time. How can the dentist recognize it? When the denture is taken out, your dental team may be able to see a very red area under the denture. There may also be red sore areas at the corner of the lips. Why does denture stomatitis need treating? If untreated, the condition can cause soreness in the mouth and may lead to poorly fitting dentures in the future. How is denture stomatitis treated? Good oral hygiene-It is important to keep your mouth as clean as possible and rinse your mouth and dentures after meals. Smoking encourages the growth of further yeast infections. Keeping your denture as clean as possible. Keep your dentures out of your mouth as much as possible, and definitely overnight. Some yeast infections will clear up completely if you don't wear your dentures at night for twó weeks. Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CL1764313