Is thrush easy to scrape off?

Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
Updated on January 30, 2025
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Oral thrush is caused by an infection with Candida albicans, resulting in localized lesions on the oral mucosa. Typically, a white membranous layer appears on the affected mucosa, which is difficult to wipe off. Forceful removal can lead to submucosal bleeding, which means it is not advisable to scrub the area. Instead, rinsing the mouth with about 2% baking soda solution is the correct approach, and this can relieve most symptoms. Additionally, it is important to maintain proper disinfection and hygiene. All tools that come into contact with the child's mouth during the period of oral thrush should be disinfected before and after each use. Consuming probiotics can also help manage the condition, reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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Can thrush be wiped off?

Oral thrush is caused by an infection of Candida albicans, typically forming white plaques on the surface of the oral mucous membrane. These plaques generally appear as small, curd-like spots or dot-like patches that can merge into a large area and are difficult to wipe off. If forcibly removed, the underlying oral mucosa may become reddened, rough, and even bleed. Therefore, one should not attempt to wipe it off and instead should seek proper treatment. The usual treatment involves the local application of 2% baking soda solution. This type of oral thrush generally does not affect a child's appetite or quality of life.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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What causes thrush?

Thrush is generally due to an imbalance in the microbial flora, leading to an infection by Candida albicans. It is common in newborns and infants. Children who have long-term malnutrition, diarrhea, or who have been treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics or corticosteroid hormones may also be susceptible to thrush. Additionally, if the mother has an infection with Candida albicans in the intestines, or if there is contamination on the nipple during breastfeeding, or if the nursing equipment is infected with fungi, this could also lead to the occurrence of thrush.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Can thrush heal by itself?

Thrush is generally caused by a fungal infection due to an imbalance in the microbial flora, primarily involving the formation of a white plaque membrane by Candida albicans on the surface of the oral mucosa. It is mainly seen in individuals with lowered immunity, such as those with long-term malnutrition, repeated use of antibiotics, diarrhea, or the use of certain medications like corticosteroids. Additionally, unsanitary conditions during breastfeeding, fungal contamination on the mother's nipples, or fungal infection from nursing equipment can also lead to thrush. Typically, thrush does not require special antimicrobial medication. If the baby's immunity improves and their intestinal flora are properly established, thrush can heal spontaneously. It is generally recommended to orally take some probiotics and enhance oral care, which can include cleaning the oral cavity with 2% sodium bicarbonate before and after breastfeeding, or locally applying antifungal agents to suppress the fungal growth in the mouth.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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How to prevent thrush

Thrush is a common oral disease in children, primarily caused by Candida albicans infection. Once diagnosed, it needs to be actively treated, generally with nystatin and sodium bicarbonate applied locally. It is essential to prevent thrush, starting with oral hygiene and care for the mouth. Additionally, all items that enter the mouth should be sterilized at high temperatures; bottles and pacifiers must be regularly sterilized, and for breastfeeding children, the mother's nipples should also be washed with clean water. The most critical point is to strengthen the immune system to prevent the frequent use of antibiotics and hormonal drugs, which can predispose children to thrush. Parents must pay close attention to this, so enhancing the immune system is very important to avoid illness and ensure proper care of the child. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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What department should I go to for thrush?

Thrush is a lesion caused by a Candida albicans infection of the oral mucosa, so the choice of clinic should be based on the specific situation. If it is neonatal thrush, it is usually appropriate to visit a neonatal clinic or a general pediatric clinic. If it is an older child with thrush, then it’s typically seen by a pediatric clinic during normal working hours, or it can also be seen at a dental clinic. During non-working hours, such as at noon, in the evening, on weekends, or holidays, it is generally appropriate to visit pediatric emergency or dental emergency services. Of course, for specialized children's hospitals and dental hospitals, there might be clinics available for pediatric dental medicine, in which case one would visit a pediatric dental clinic.