If you need to see a dentist at a private dental clinic, it is best to check with your oncologist before having invasive dental treatment, such as the removal of a tooth. It is important that you tell your dentist if you are having or have had cancer treatment as part of your medical history.
The most appropriate time to schedule dental treatment during chemotherapy is after patients' blood counts have recovered, usually just prior to their next scheduled round or course of chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may cause changes in the lining of the mouth and the salivary glands, which make saliva. This can upset the healthy balance of bacteria. These changes may lead to mouth sores, infections, and tooth decay.
hygiene treatment to be provided at appropriate times between cycles. For invasive oral procedures in general, this is typically 17 to 20 days after a chemotherapy session — when platelet and WBC/granulocyte/neutrophil levels are generally satisfactory and when the patient/client feels best.
Prevention of dental disease is always important, but particularly when your body is most vulnerable. The best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy is to remove plaque and bacteria regularly. So, during cancer treatment, be sure to attend six-month dental cleanings and checkups.
Brush your teeth, gums, and tongue with an extra-soft toothbrush after every meal and at bedtime. If brushing hurts, soften the bristles in warm water. Use a fluoride toothpaste. Don't use mouthwashes with alcohol in them.
Use a fluoride toothpaste or baking soda with fluoride.
Toxic effects of chemotherapy in the oral cavity may include ulcerative mucositis/stomatitis, xerostomia, salivary gland dysfunction, oral infections, and oral sores. Oral infections can result in periodontal changes with advanced attachment loss and mobility.
Be sure to wear double gloves that can keep your hands safe when cleaning the toilet or cleaning up any bodily fluids. To clean it, pour bleach or other toilet-cleaning solution into your toilet according to the manufacturer's guidance, brush the sides and rim, and then let it sit for a few minutes.
Chemotherapy may cause a temporary decrease in immune cells, increasing your risk of gum disease and causing them to become red, swollen, and tender. Brushing and eating may become painful, and, in some cases, the gums may also pull away from the teeth, increasing the risk of tooth loss.
Around the third day following a chemotherapy treatment, some people may experience flu-like symptoms such as muscle aches and pains. If you experience these aches, you can take over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol or Advil. If necessary, contact your doctor for stronger medication.
But many patients are surprised by one of the most common side effects of this treatment: oral mucositis – also called “chemo mouth.” Five to 10 days following an initial chemotherapy treatment, inflammation and sores can develop on the tongue, gums and anywhere along the digestive tract.
The most common oral complications related to cancer therapies are mucositis, infection, salivary gland dysfunction, taste dysfunction, and pain. These complications can lead to secondary complications such as dehydration, dysgeusia, and malnutrition.
Avoid the following:
Dry foods including tough meats, raw vegetables, breads, pretzels, rice, chips, muffins, and cakes. Commercial mouthwashes. These contain alcohol which will dry the mouth out and increase pain.
Before chemotherapy begins, have your dentist check to see if you have a gum infection, cavities that need filling, ill-fitting dentures or mouth sores. Addressing these issues well before treatment begins may help you avoid further complications later.
It is safe to touch other people while on chemotherapy. You can hug and kiss. But you do need to protect others from coming into contact with your medicine.
Bathe every day and use warm water. Avoid soaking in spas or hot tubs. Use a mild soap for bathing. Use a soft towel to gently wash skin.
It is fine to wear nail varnish, but try to use a water-based polish. Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as acetone, when taking off the polish.
If water doesn't do it for you, try something else. Milk, juice, sports drinks, and decaf coffee or tea all count as fluids. Sometimes, drinks with ice are easier to swallow. Foods count, too.
Chemotherapy can cause your hair to become dry and brittle, so take good care of it. Use a neutral pH shampoo and conditioner (baby shampoo is too alkaline). Cut down on the number of times you wash your hair each week. Use a wide-toothed comb to avoid pulling at your hair and hair roots.
Many patients experience eye issues during cancer treatment. Symptoms may include irritated or dry eyes, tearing, redness, pain, and blurred vision. First, we urge you to contact your oncologist, who should always be notified about any physical changes you may experience during your cancer treatment.
Mucous membranes line many cavities and canals in your body, but mucositis particularly affects those in your digestive system, especially your oral mucosa. It's a common side effect of certain cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplants or bone marrow transplants.
Drink beverages such as diluted fruit juice, milk, buttermilk, lemonade, ginger ale or sports drinks. Choose desserts that aren't as sweet, such as yogurt, custard, pumpkin pie, fruit, baked fruit, fruit with cottage cheese, fruit crumble, plain doughnuts, or graham crackers.