Cancer treatment saves lives, but it often comes with challenging side effects that affect your oral health. Dry mouth, mouth sores, and increased infection risk can make eating, speaking, and maintaining dental hygiene difficult during an already stressful time.
At Drs. Chin & Pharar Dentistry, we understand the unique dental needs of cancer patients. Dr. Jessica Pharar trained at the Sammons Cancer Center, where she developed a deep knowledge and respect for those facing the disease and learned specialized treatment approaches. We’re committed to helping you maintain your oral health throughout your cancer treatment so you can focus on healing.
How to Manage Dry Mouth and Other Cancer Treatment Complications
Cancer treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation, can significantly impact your oral health. Radiation therapy to the head and neck area may damage salivary glands, while chemotherapy can affect the cells lining your mouth. These treatments may also weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Understanding the following complications and how to manage them can help you maintain better oral health during treatment:
Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
Drinking plenty of water is one of the simplest ways to combat dry mouth. Sip water frequently throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Keep a water bottle with you at all times, and take small sips during meals to help with chewing and swallowing. You may also try sucking on ice chips or sugar-free popsicles for relief. Avoid beverages that can worsen dry mouth, such as alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.
Use Saliva Substitutes and Moisturizing Products
Over-the-counter saliva substitutes can provide temporary relief from dry mouth symptoms. These products come in sprays, gels, and lozenges that coat your mouth and throat. Look for alcohol-free mouth rinses specifically designed for dry mouth, as alcohol-based products can increase irritation. Apply lip balm regularly to prevent cracking and discomfort. Some patients find relief using a humidifier in their bedroom at night to add moisture to the air while sleeping.
Maintain Gentle but Thorough Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean during cancer treatment requires a delicate balance between thoroughness and gentleness. Brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush after every meal and before bed helps remove food particles and bacteria, while fluoride toothpaste works to strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent decay. Daily flossing is important, though you’ll want to be extra gentle if your gums become sensitive or start bleeding.
Rinsing your mouth with a mild saltwater solution (one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water) several times a day keeps your mouth clean while soothing irritation. You should also avoid commercial mouthwashes containing alcohol, as they can further dry out and irritate your mouth when you’re already dealing with reduced saliva production.
Protect Your Teeth From Decay
Dry mouth significantly increases your risk of tooth decay because you produce less saliva to wash away food particles and neutralize acids. Prescription-strength fluoride treatments from your dentist can provide an extra layer of protection for your teeth, and using fluoride gel or rinses at home offers additional preventive benefits.
Your diet plays an important role, too, so avoiding sugary and acidic foods helps reduce decay risk, while choosing soft foods makes eating more comfortable. When you need to snack between meals, tooth-friendly options like cheese and yogurt satisfy hunger without compromising your oral health.
Address Mouth Sores Promptly
Mouth sores are a common side effect of cancer treatment that can make eating and drinking painful. Maintaining the cleanest mouth possible helps prevent infection, which means being selective about what you eat. Spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods can irritate existing sores, so soft, moist options like smoothies, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs provide better alternatives. Prescribed topical medications can numb the pain and promote healing.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Seeing your dentist regularly during cancer treatment is crucial for preventing and addressing oral health problems early. If possible, scheduling a comprehensive dental exam before starting cancer treatment allows us to address any existing issues and provide guidance on maintaining oral health throughout your treatment. Continuing with regular preventive care appointments is crucial even during treatment. We can coordinate care with your oncologist and adjust your dental treatment plan as needed.
Get Specialized Dental Care at Drs. Chin & Pharar Dentistry During Your Cancer Treatment
Managing oral health during cancer treatment requires patience, diligence, and the right dental support. Don’t put off addressing dry mouth or other oral complications, as these issues can lead to more serious problems if left untreated. We accept most major dental insurance plans, including Delta Dental, MetLife, and CIGNA, making quality care more accessible.
If you’re undergoing cancer treatment or preparing to start, contact us to schedule a consultation. We’ll work closely with your medical team to create a personalized oral care plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you maintain the healthiest mouth possible during this challenging time.