It sounds like a horror story, but it is a documented medical reality: oral myiasis, a condition in which fly larvae grow and survive inside the human mouth. The article describes one of the most shocking cases — a patient whose oral cavity was infested with dozens, even hundreds, of tiny moving larvae. While extremely rare, this condition has been reported around the world, especially in places with poor hygiene and high fly activity.
Oral myiasis begins when certain species of flies lay eggs in moist, unclean, or damaged tissues. The mouth, especially if a person has gum disease, open sores, decaying teeth, or is unable to fully close their mouth during sleep, can unfortunately become the perfect environment for these insects. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae bury themselves into soft tissues, feeding on food remains, dead tissue, and sometimes even living tissue — which leads to rapid spread and painful symptoms.
The earliest signs often include a strange crawling sensation, excessive salivation, swelling, and difficulty chewing or swallowing. Some patients notice a foul odor or unusual taste, and in severe cases, the larvae may even be visible moving between the gums and inner cheeks. Without treatment, the infestation can grow rapidly because larvae develop quickly, consuming tissue and causing necrosis or dangerous secondary infections.
Although many people fear that food is the main source of infection, direct contamination from food is actually very rare. Myiasis most often occurs when flies land directly in or near the mouth of a person who is sleeping, unconscious, elderly, or unable to maintain proper hygiene. People with weakened immune systems, alcoholism, paralysis, or advanced dental disease are at significantly higher risk. This condition is not about “bad food,” but rather about unsanitary environments combined with vulnerable oral tissue.
The treatment process is intense, as doctors must remove each larva individually, often using forceps under local anesthesia. Antiparasitic medications such as ivermectin may be required to kill deeper larvae that are not immediately visible. After removal, the infected areas must be disinfected, cleaned, and closely monitored to prevent reinfection or tissue destruction. Many patients require additional dental or surgical procedures to restore damaged gum tissue, cheeks, or lips.
Prevention, however, is straightforward and highly effective. Good oral hygiene — brushing, flossing, treating gum disease, and visiting a dentist regularly — significantly lowers risk. Maintaining a clean living environment, protecting wounds, and keeping flies away from sleeping areas are also essential.
Even though the idea of worms living in the mouth is overwhelmingly disturbing, it is important to understand that this condition remains extremely uncommon, especially for individuals with normal hygiene and health. Still, awareness can help people protect themselves and recognize risks early. The human body is a strong defense system, but in rare situations, nature can find unexpected ways to exploit its weaknesses — and oral myiasis is one of the most unsettling examples of that.
