Mouth infections are the swelling, spots or sores on your mouth, lips or tongue. The most common mouth infections are Aphthous ulcers, cold sores, leukoplakia and candidiasis (thrush).

	Aphthous Ulcers Aphthous ulcers are small white sores around an area of redness. They may not be contagious but can be confused as cold sores, which are caused by the contagious herpes virus. The difference between the two is that canker sores appear on the inside of the mouth whilst cold sores appear on the outside of the mouth. Canker sores can reappear after time and can be seen as small minor), larger (major) or in groups or clusters (herpetiform). These ulcers are very common and can reappear, however the exact cause is uncertain, some experts believe that it is due to the immune system and this is where bacteria and viruses may be involved. However other factors such as stress, cigarette smoking, iron or other vitamin deficiencies have also been linked to causing Aphthous Ulcers.
	Cold Sores Cold sores, which are also known as herpes simplex, are groups of liquid filled blisters which occur around the mouth, lips sometimes underneath the nose and around the chin. Sores are usually caused by a type of herpes virus and are very contagious. The first infection often occurs in children, sometimes without symptoms, and may be confused with a cold or flu. Once a person has contracted a cold sore the virus remains in the body which occasionally reappears after a while. However there are some people that the virus remains inactive.
	Leukoplakia lthis Leukoplakia lthis looks like a thick, white patch on the inside of the cheek, gums or tongue. This is very common in smokers, however there are other causes such as broken teeth and chewing on ones teeth. An estimated 5% of leukoplakia cases progress to cancer, so your dentist may take a biopsy. Leukoplakia often heals when the use of tobacco stops.
	Candidiasis-oral Thrush Candidiasis-oral thrush - is a fungal infection caused by candida albicans, which is yeast. The creamy, yellow-white or red patches that occur can make it easier to recognise on moist surfaces in the mouth. Tissues under the patch can be painful. Thrush is most common among denture wearers, newborns, those debilitated by disease, and those whose immune system is not functioning properly. People, who have a Dry mouth, or who are taking or have just completed antibiotic treatment, are also susceptible.

How are mouth infections treated?
There are various different treatments that can be used to stop or to get rid of mouth infections.

	Aphthous Ulcers - usually take 7- 10 days to heal, however they may reoccur. Non-prescription topical ointments and pain relievers can provide temporary relief. Rinsing with antimicrobial mouth rinses may help reduce the irritation. Sometimes, antibiotics are prescribed to reduce secondary infection.
	Cold Sores - the blisters usually heal in about a week. Because there is no cure for herpes infections, the blisters may re-occur during times of emotional upset, exposure to sunlight, allergies or fever. Non-prescription topical anaesthetics can provide temporary relief. Prescription antiviral drugs may reduce these kinds of viral infections -- ask your dentist or physician.
	Leukoplakia - treatment begins by removing the factors causing the lesions. For smokers this means quitting smoking. For others, it means removing ill-fitting dentures and replacing them with properly fitting ones. Your dentist will monitor and examine you.
	Candidiasis - treatment consists of controlling the conditions that cause the outbreaks. Cleaning dentures is important in preventing denture-induced problems. Removing dentures at night can help. If antibiotics or oral contraceptives are the cause, reducing the dose or changing the treatment  may help. Saliva substitutes are available to help with dry mouth. Anti-fungal medications may be used when the underlying cause is unavoidable or incurable. Good oral hygiene is essential.

If you believe you have any of the above conditions you should consult a dentist.  To locate a dentist near you - click here.