Oral Care During Cancer Care
When facing cancer, oral concerns may not come to mind, but they should be.
Oral complications are common during cancer treatment, especially treatment for head and neck cancer. Oral health problems associated with cancer treatments include:
- oral sores or infection
- tooth decay
- gum disease
- taste disturbances
- jaw stiffness
Seeing Your Dentist Before Cancer Treatment
The National Cancer Institute recommends a complete dental examination a month before beginning cancer treatment (National Cancer Institute). This may provide time to treat tooth decay, gum disease, oral sores, and /or infections. This examination appointment may also help to identify damage to existing restorations, poor-fitting dentures, or jaw problems. Your dentist may prescribe artificial saliva or a special rinse to use during cancer treatment.
Oral Health During Cancer Treatment
Steps can be taken to improve your oral health during cancer treatment.
Good oral care may reduce the risk of developing cavities and keep your gums healthy.
- Brush your teeth twice per day for 2 minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, making gentle, tooth-wide circles along the gumline.
- Use a remineralizing toothpaste (hydroxyapatite or fluoride depending on caries risk)
- Gently clean between your teeth once per day using dental floss, tape, and/or water flosser as needed for your teeth.
- If you develop mouth sores, use a rinse every 2 hours to decrease soreness: dissolve one-quarter teaspoon of salt and one-quarter teaspoon of baking soda in 8 ml of water.
- Avoid surgery foods and drinks
Strategies to abate dry mouth:
- Sip water or sugarless drinks that do not contain caffeine.
- Suck on (do not chew) ice chips
- Apply lanolin-based lip balm often
- Use xylitol mint to help stimulate saliva production (i.e. Xylimelts)
- Avoid salty or spicy foods that may irritate fragile tissue.
- Limit alcoholic beverages.
- Avoid mouth rinses that contain alcohol.
- Use a humidifier at night.
Conclusion
Oral effects of cancer treatments can make your mouth uncomfortable and restricted nutrition will damage your health. Mak sure your dentist is aware of changes in your health and treatments so that he or she can help you during your cancer care. Wishing you good health!
