Are you currently undergoing cancer treatment? Chemotherapy and radiation can have a negative impact on the health of your teeth and gums. It is important to know how to maintain optimal oral health throughout the duration of your treatment . If you have a port under the skin, be sure to speak with your cancer treatment team prior to any dental appointments. In many instances, chemotherapy patients take blood-thinning medications, which can increase the risk of bleeding and infection during dental procedures.
Common Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Chemotherapy can trigger a wide range of reactions, including dental concerns. In the sections below, we will explore a few of the most common side effects and explore how to manage them.
Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)
Saliva is essential for optimal oral health. Spit helps wash away harmful debris, food particles, and bacteria, reducing the risk for cavities and gum disease. Chemotherapy and radiation treatments can significantly decrease your body’s ability to create saliva, making you more vulnerable to dental damage. Drinking plenty of water is the first step for combatting dry mouth. In addition, be sure to talk to your dentist about products that aid in saliva production, such as Biotène®. Finally, use a fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth. This will help protect your tooth enamel, which may reduce your risk of decay. Periodontal Disease Periodontal disease is characterized by red, tender, swollen gums. Because cancer treatments lower your immune system, your body automatically becomes more susceptible to infections and bacteria. The link between oral health and whole-body health has been confirmed time and time again. Therefore, if you notice any of the symptoms above, it is important to schedule a consultation with your dentist right away. To prevent gum disease, brush with a fluoride toothpaste and floss every day. We also recommend rinsing your mouth often. This will help wash away harmful bacteria. In addition, your dentist may recommend more frequent dental cleanings. Mouth Sores or Lesions Cancer treatment can sometimes cause ulcers or mouth sores in or around the oral soft tissues. Most of the time, these lesions are mild. However, if you develop severe mouth sores, your oncologist may recommend waiting until they heal before resuming chemotherapy. If mouth sores become a frequent side effect, you can talk to your dentist about treatment options. In many cases, he or she can prescribe a topical ointment that creates a barrier of protection over the affected areas. Over-the-counter products, such as aloe vera, are also helpful. Oral Infections Because chemotherapy lowers your immunity, you become more susceptible to infections. Therefore, if you have any issues presently, cancer treatment can make them worse. Before beginning chemotherapy, we recommend having a comprehensive assessment performed by your dentist. He or she can address any potential problems ahead of time, therefore decreasing your risk for complications. Jaw Pain A lesser known side effect of chemotherapy and radiation is jaw pain or discomfort. This can be due to inflammation caused by certain medications – or it can simply be caused by stress. Depending on the cause of your discomfort, your dentist may recommend a custom oral appliance to help place the jaw in a more favorable position. Other treatments may include muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory medications, or exercises. If you or a loved one is currently undergoing cancer treatment, it is important to give extra care to your teeth and gums during this time. To learn more, visit Metropolitan Dental Care in Denver or Lone Tree. Our team of experts has over 30 years of experience providing dental care to chemotherapy patients. Contact us online or call our office at 303-534-2626.
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