Patient newsletter · Our summary
Oral care during cancer treatment
Cancer treatment can affect your mouth. Seeing us before treatment begins and gentle daily care can help prevent problems along the way.
Why your mouth matters during treatment
Chemotherapy and radiation can cause cavities, taste changes, dry mouth, jaw stiffness, and mouth sores. Some of these make eating, talking, or swallowing harder, and some make it harder to fight infection. Teamwork between your dentist and your cancer doctor can help lower the risk.
See us before you start
The National Cancer Institute recommends a dental visit about 4 weeks before chemotherapy or radiation begins, so we can find and treat problems like cavities, gum disease, or sores that could flare up and possibly delay your cancer care.
Protect against cavities
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth daily, and go easy on sugary foods and drinks.
Ease dry mouth
Sip water or sugar-free, caffeine-free drinks; let ice chips melt (don’t chew them); use a lanolin-based lip balm; try sugar-free gum or candy; choose an alcohol-free mouthrinse; and run a humidifier at night. Skipping salty or spicy foods, limiting alcohol, and stopping tobacco can also help.
Jaw stiffness and mouth sores
Radiation to the head and neck can stiffen jaw muscles; stretching exercises from your dentist or doctor may help. If you notice a sore, tell us or your cancer team right away so treatment can start early.
Questions? Ask Dr. Greg or Dr. Gina at your next visit — we’re always happy to talk.
This information is general and not a substitute for personal dental advice.