Mouth Larvae (Oral Myiasis): Causes, Symptoms & Prevention

What Are Mouth Larvae?

Mouth larvae refers to the infestation of maggots (fly larvae) in the mouth. Larvae are the immature stage of certain insects, especially flies. It occurs when flies lay eggs in the tissues of the mouth, and these eggs hatch into larvae (maggots), which then start feeding on the soft tissues inside the mouth. In some rare and serious cases, these larvae can infest the human mouth. Several types of flies are known to cause such infestations. Some of them are:

1. Screwworm Fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax, Chrysomya bezziana)

These have a distinctive screw-like shape and feed aggressively on living cells. They cause rapid tissue destruction and severe infections, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.

2. Human Botfly (Dermatobia hominis)

This fly transfers its eggs to humans through mosquitoes or other insects. Once inside the mouth, the larvae burrow into soft tissue, leading to sharp pain, swelling, and inflammation.

3. Flesh Flies (Sarcophagidae Family)

Flesh flies lay eggs in decaying or infected mouth tissue. The larvae feed on dead tissue, worsen existing wounds, and delay healing, especially in unhygienic conditions.

4. Horse Botfly (Gasterophilus spp.)

Although they mainly affect horses, humans can get infected by ingesting contaminated food or water. The larvae irritate the mouth lining, causing discomfort and swelling.

5. Blowfly (Calliphoridae Family)

These flies are known for laying eggs on open wounds or necrotic tissue. Their larvae feed on both dead and live tissue, resulting in significant damage in unclean or neglected cases.

How Do Mouth Larvae Enter the Mouth?

It is unusual, but mouth larvae occur if flies deposit eggs within the mouth. This is possible when a person has:

• An open sore or wound in the mouth

• Unhealthy mouth hygiene

• An illness that prevents them from properly cleaning their mouth

It is important to avoid such situations. However, certain scenarios cannot be avoided. Hence, to be safe, it is important to have health insurance to cover medical costs during treatment.

Signs and Symptoms

Mouth larvae are quite unpleasant. But more importantly, they are deeply distressing and painful. Some individuals may notice the following as signs:

• Pain and swelling within the mouth

• A foul odour or extremely bad breath

• Gum bleeding or cheek bleeding

• A crawling or moving sensation

• Visible white larvae wiggling around

In severe cases, the larvae destroy the deeper tissues of the mouth, causing it to be difficult to chew, swallow or even speak. If left untreated, this may result in life-threatening infections spreading to other areas of the face or neck. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention. You do not need to be worried about medical costs, as cashless health insurance will assist you with that.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Doctors normally make a diagnosis of mouth larvae by examining inside the mouth and observing the larvae. Occasionally they make use of medical instruments to observe how deep the larvae have penetrated.

Treatment involves:

• Removal of the larvae physically, usually with tweezers or suction

• Wound cleansing

• Administering antibiotics if there is an infection

• Administration of painkillers for pain

• Surgery in more serious cases to remove dead or severely damaged tissue

How Can You Prevent It?

Mouth larvae are extremely uncommon, and they can be prevented if you take some easy precautions:

• Brush your teeth daily

• Visit a dentist periodically

• Deal with any cuts, ulcers or wounds in your mouth promptly

• Prevent flies from reaching food by covering it and screening with fly screens

• Assist disabled or elderly individuals in keeping their mouths clean

Who Is Most at Risk?

Some individuals are more at risk of developing mouth larvae, such as:

• People with poor oral hygiene are more likely to attract flies that lay eggs in the mouth.

• Those with weak immune systems, such as people with diabetes, HIV, or cancer, face a greater risk.

• Individuals with recent facial injuries or oral surgeries are more prone to larvae entering the wounds.

• People in poor living conditions without access to clean water or healthcare are at increased risk.

• Elderly or bedridden patients who cannot maintain oral cleanliness are more vulnerable.