Cancer Treatments and Oral Health

Cancer Treatments and Oral Health

Cancer Treatments and Oral Health

What should be done before treatments?Before starting chemotherapy or radiation therapy, it is good to have your mouth and teeth examined to see if you are pre-disposed for some problems. Dentists recommend having a thoroughdental examat least two weeks before cancer treatment begins in order to reduce and manage the undesirable side effects. If you already have cavities, or if you already suffer from gum disease, treating and managing those disorders should also ideally be done previously. Before the exam, your dentist should be notified about your health state with cancer and your medical history should be updated. Your dentist must know who your physician is, what your cancer treatment will be, and other aspects of your cancer diagnosis. All this information will help your dentist understand and plan how to treat you, make the right recommendations and support your physician's treatment plan.

How to care for your mouth:If you have cancer it's important for you to continue regular and thorough oral hygiene, which includes brushing two to three times a day and flossing at least once a day. When you go through chemotherapy or radiation therapy your mouth becomes drier from low saliva flow. You have more chances of developing tooth decay and gum disease. That is why you should floss preferably after each meal. Also, when you brush your teeth, use mild-tasting toothpaste because too much flavour can irritate your mouth. If a toothpaste irritates your mouth, rinse with salt and water after brushing your teeth. To avoid gum disease, rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash, but it's important to avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol.

What to do about dry mouth:Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can affect salivary glands in your mouth. Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is an unpleasant sensation caused by a reduced production of saliva. This condition can increase the risk of developing cavities and can also initiate a burning or painful feeling in your mouth. If you have cancer and are suffering from dry mouth, you should brush your teeth and clean your mouth at least four times a day, and floss at least once a day. If there are areas in your gums that are bleeding or that are sore, floss gently around them. You also need to use a fluoride containing toothpaste in order to protect even more your teeth against tooth decay. You can rinse your mouth with a solution of salt and baking soda in warm water several times a day, and this followed by rinsing with water alone. Other mouthwashes may also be used to rinse your mouth, but as long as they don't contain alcohol. If you have cancer and you are undergoing treatments, whether it's chemotherapy or radiation therapy, your ability to taste changes, and you might find it more difficult to eat the foods that you are used to eating. But despite these uncomfortable difficulties, it's important to maintain a balanced diet as it is recommended by your physician.

What should you eat:When undergoing a cancer treatment, you might experience nausea and a loss of appetite. But it's important to get the right amount of nutrients and calories. Protein intake is something important to consider as well. You must also make sure you get enough vitamins by eating fruits and vegetables. If needed, you may use vitamin supplements that also provide essential minerals. The bones of your jaws support your teeth. Therefore when your bones are strong and healthy, you teeth have a stronger foundation to hold them when you eat and chew foods. Many doctors recommend taking vitamin D and calcium to keep your bones healthy. If you have bone diseases such as osteoporosis you may need additional supplements. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol during cancer treatment. Tobacco is a strong carcinogen and should never be consumed in the first place, even less if you are diagnosed with cancer. Acidic foods can irritate your mouth. You should avoid acidic, high-sugar beverages like soft drinks and energy drinks. Consumption of grapefruit, orange juice, and tomato juice should also be reduced because they are natural acidic foods.

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