How do I prevent thrush from happening to my breastfeeding baby?

I use sterile gauze and dab with cool boiled water. I would suggest you do it when baby is more alert and happy. Talk to him telling him you are going to clean his mouth and please open the mouth. Repeat this several times. You will be surprised that baby does understand. If the mouth is closed, you can try to wait for baby to open mouth and try again.