What Does Oral Thrush Look Like? A Complete Visual Guide

Discovering unusual white patches or soreness in your mouth can be alarming. It’s natural to feel concerned and to seek clear, reliable information. This comprehensive visual guide is designed to help you understand the classic signs of oral thrush (oral candidiasis). We will provide detailed descriptions, explain what it looks like in different people, and, importantly, compare it to other common conditions that can look similar. This guide will empower you with the knowledge to understand your symptoms and decide on the appropriate next steps.

The Classic Signs and Symptoms of Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of a yeast called Candida.[1] While it can present in a few ways, the most common form has several distinct characteristics.

• Creamy White Lesions: The most common sign of oral thrush is the presence of creamy white patches or spots that are slightly raised.[2, 3] These lesions are often compared to the appearance of cottage cheese or milk curds.[1, 4]
• Location: These patches typically appear on the tongue and the inner surfaces of the cheeks. However, they can also spread to the roof of the mouth (palate), gums, tonsils, and the back of the throat.[2, 1]
• A Key Diagnostic Clue: A critical feature of these thrush plaques is that they can often be wiped or gently scraped away. Doing so typically reveals a red, inflamed, and tender area underneath, which may bleed slightly.[5, 4] This is a primary differentiator from other conditions that cause white patches.
• Associated Symptoms: Beyond the white patches, oral thrush can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including redness, burning, or soreness in the mouth, a "cottony" feeling, and a partial or complete loss of taste.[1, 5, 3]

Is It Oral Thrush or Something Else? A Comparative Guide

Several other oral conditions can cause white patches or soreness, leading to confusion. Understanding the differences is key to getting the right care. Below is a table comparing oral thrush to the most common look-alike conditions.

When to See a Doctor

Self-diagnosis can be difficult and risky. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis, especially if:

• You suspect you have oral thrush.
• The symptoms are severe, painful, or make it difficult to eat or drink.[1]
• You have a weakened immune system due to a condition like HIV/AIDS or are undergoing chemotherapy.[3]
• The condition does not improve or returns after treatment.[1]

Feeling uncertain? Don't guess with your health. Our app is designed to help you make sense of your symptoms. Use your phone's camera to take a picture and get a preliminary risk assessment based on our AI. Take the first step toward clarity and peace of mind.