Cancer can be a devastating diagnosis, but fortunately, most cancer patients are strong, resilient people who are determined to fight for better days ahead. Throughout your treatment, you may face some challenges, including changes to your oral health. For example, chemotherapy and radiation may contribute to dry mouth and oral sores. What can you do to protect your smile throughout your cancer treatment? Here are some practical tips:
Visit Your Dentist
Let your dentist know that you have been diagnosed with cancer. During your next cleaning and checkup, they will evaluate your oral health, learn more about your prognosis, and provide professional guidance on oral care. Attending regular checkups throughout your fight with cancer will give your dentist the opportunity to diagnose cavities and gum disease while they are still in their early stages. They will therefore be less likely to cause significant damage.
Keep an Eye on Mouth Sores
Unfortunately, mouth sores are common among patients who are undergoing cancer treatment. Some at-home remedies, such as swishing with a mixture of salt, baking soda, and water, can relieve some of the discomfort. However, professional care is also recommended. Treating mouth sores as early in their development as possible may prevent them from becoming severe.
Fight Dry Mouth
Radiation and chemotherapy often have dry mouth as a side effect. Without adequate saliva, you may be more prone to develop cavities and gum disease. Here are some tips to keep your mouth moist and reduce your risk of such problems:
- Drink plenty of water
- Suck on ice chips (do not chew them)
- Use a humidifier at night
- Suck on sugar-free candy to encourage saliva production
Keep Up with Oral Hygiene
Because your mouth may be tender during your cancer treatment, you should be extra-gentle while brushing and flossing. You might switch to a toothbrush with extra-soft bristles. You can also try softening the bristles of your existing toothbrush by soaking it in hot water. Gently brush with a fluoride-containing toothpaste.
Also, try to keep up with your flossing routine if possible. If flossing causes bleeding when your blood platelet count is low, you may need to temporarily pause this part of your oral hygiene routine.
Eat Soft Foods
If you experience soreness in your teeth or gums during chemotherapy, you may need to adjust what you eat. Switching to soft foods, like scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and similar items, can do much to prevent further discomfort. Crunchy and hard foods, such as chips and other popular snacks, should be avoided due to their potential to irritate sensitive tissues.
Chemotherapy and radiation can affect your oral health, but they do not have to wreck your smile. The above tips can help you to maintain your teeth and gums while you are defending your life against cancer.
Meet the Practice
The experts at Aveni Dental Professionals care deeply about the overall wellness of our patients. We welcome cancer patients; we want to be on your team as you fight your disease and strive to protect your smile. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact us at 508-217-7454.