 Overview
An estimated 400,000 of
the 1.2 million Americans diagnosed with
cancer each year may develop painful
and debilitating oral complications from
their cancer treatment. Persons who undergo
cancer treatment are sometimes unaware
that a dental examination is a critical
step in maintaining their overall health.
Someone who is receiving radiation therapy
of the head and neck area, or has a history
of such treatment, may develop certain
complications including dry mouth, sensitive
lesions in the oral cavity, hypersensitive
teeth, rapid tooth decay and difficulty
swallowing. Chemotherapy can also have
significant effects on the oral cavity.
To help prevent, minimize and manage such
problems, your dentist and oncologist
can work together—before and during
your cancer treatment.
During the treatment period for head and
neck cancer, gently brush your teeth
twice a day unless your dentist recommends
otherwise. Your dentist may recommend
a mouthrinse in addition to daily brushing.
If you develop a condition called dry
mouth, your dentist may recommend a saliva
replacement, an artificial saliva that
is available over-the-counter at pharmacies.
Frequent fluoride applications may also
be recommended.
Because any mouth infection may have serious
implications, contact your dentist or
physician immediately should any occur.
Your dentist and physician both want
your treatment to be as safe and effective
as possible.
Additional
Resources
ADA Dental Minute
Please note: The ADA does not provide specific answers
to individual questions about fees, dental problems, conditions, diagnoses,
treatments or proposed treatments, or requests for research. Information about
dental referrals, complaints and a variety of dental procedures may
be found here. You can also refer to our Frequently
Asked Questions page for answers to common questions.
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