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Cancer and Dental Health

More than one-third of all cancer patients develop complications that affect the mouth, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. These mild to severe side effects can include mouth sores, infection, dry mouth, sensitive gums and jaw pain.

Your mouth health is an important part of your overall health, so make your dentist part of your cancer care team. If you don’t have a regular dentist, use the ADA Find-A-Dentist tool to search for an ADA member dentist in your area.

How Cancer Affects Your Mouth:

Cancer and its treatments, like chemotherapy, can weaken your immune system. If your mouth is not as healthy as possible prior to your cancer treatment, you may be more susceptible to infection. If the infection is serious enough, it can delay your cancer treatment. In addition, radiation therapy, especially in the area of the head and neck, can damage salivary glands which can cause thick, sticky saliva and extreme dry mouth. A dry mouth can increase your chances of tooth decay and infection.

Maintaining your mouth at its best health before, during and after cancer treatment could help lessen some side effects and allow you to focus on your overall healing.

If your mouth is not as healthy as possible prior to your cancer treatment, you may be more susceptible to infection. If the infection is serious enough, it can delay treatment. 

Your dentist can evaluate your dental health and discuss which treatment options you should consider prior to starting cancer treatment. By treating areas of concern you may reduce possible dental side effects associated with chemotherapy and radiation. Some treatment options may include fluoride treatments to prevent cavities, filling existing cavities, treating gum disease, removing infected teeth or restoring crowns or bridge work to ensure you will be able to chew your food. 

During the course of your cancer treatment you may experience mild to severe side effects. Be sure to consult with your cancer care team prior to dental checkups, especially if you have a port under your skin for receiving medication or feeding. This is important because patients with a port may also take anti-blood clotting medications, which can increase bleeding during dental and medical procedures and the risk of infection.

After cancer treatment, you may find yourself experiencing some dental issues or simply needing a regular checkup. As you're working toward your best health, don't forget to take care of your mouth. After all, it is the gateway to the rest of your body.

Visit Your Dentist:

Routine check-ups and cleanings are essential, so visit your dentist on a regular basis. Due to the effects of cancer treatment, you may have moderate to severe tooth decay as a result of dry mouth since saliva (spit) is essential in rinsing the mouth of food particles and plaque. Treatment may include filling cavities, root canals, or crown and bridge work. 

(12/09/2020)
by ADA

More Information: https://www.mybestdentists.com/resources/AmericanDentalAssociation

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