Dental Health and Cancer

Oral complications of cancer treatment arise in various forms and degrees of severity, depending on the individual and the cancer treatment.  There are certainly side effects and complications that can arise from treatment.  A thorough oral evaluation by your dentist before cancer treatment begins is important to the success of the regimen.
Oral complications common to both chemotherapy and radiation are oral inflammation and ulcerations, infections, dry mouth/salivary gland dysfunction, taste alterations, as well as impaired ability to eat, taste, swallow, and speak.  Poor nutrition can result from eating difficulties due to the complications.  Additional complications from chemotherapy include bleeding and neurotoxicity (a persistent, aching and burning pain that mimics a toothache, but for which no dental source is identified).  Additional complications from radiation include risk of decay if problems in saliva continue, restrictions in normal ability to open the mouth, and decreased ability to heal.
Your dentist will establish baseline data, can identify and treat problems such as infection, fractured teeth or restorations, or periodontal disease that could contribute to oral complications when cancer therapy begins.  Catching such problems earlier can reduce the risk and severity of oral complications, preserves or improves your oral health, improves quality of life and decreases the cost of care.  During cancer treatment, your dentist will consult with your oncologist about dental procedures that may be needed.
It is very important to have adequate nutrition and optimal oral hygiene during treatment.  It’s important to note that good oral care during cancer treatment contributes to its success.  Brush teeth, gums, and tongue gently with an extra-soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste after every meal and before bed.  If brushing hurts, soften the bristles in warm water.  Floss teeth gently every day and rinse with a baking soda and salt solution, followed by a plain water rinse several times a day.  Avoid candy, gum, soda, spicy or acidic foods, toothpicks, tobacco products, alcohol, and mouthwashes containing alcohol.  Exercise the jaw muscles three times a day to prevent and treat jaw stiffness from radiation.  Follow instructions for using fluoride gel given by your dentist and see your dentist routinely.
Careful monitoring of oral health is especially important during cancer therapy to prevent, detect, and treat complications as soon as possible.
As always we are here to keep you healthy, happy and cavity-free. You may reach us at 661-505-2926 or find us on the web at www.maycontedds.com. We are located at 25385 Wayne Mills Place in Valencia.