Cancer patients undergoing treatment face a variety of challenges, and one of the often overlooked aspects of their overall care is oral health. Radiation, chemotherapy, and other cancer therapies can lead to significant changes in the mouth, which can cause discomfort, increase infection risk, and complicate treatment. The good news is with careful management and proactive dental care, many of these oral complications can be mitigated. Patients, their caregivers, and healthcare providers must understand how to manage oral health before, during, and after cancer treatment.
At Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group, we recognize the unique challenges cancer patients face regarding oral health. Dr. Nancy Herbst and our team are here to ensure your care is as smooth as possible. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Herbst can work with your oncology team to create a care plan that helps prevent oral complications. We aim to help you feel comfortable and confident in your care, so you can focus on your cancer treatment without additional concerns.
How Cancer Treatments Impact Oral Health
Cancer therapies, especially chemotherapy and radiation to the head and neck, can have serious side effects on oral health. Chemotherapy often results in dry mouth, sores, bleeding gums, and an increased risk of infection due to its impact on the body’s immune system. Radiation therapy to the head and neck, in particular, can affect the salivary glands, resulting in chronic dry mouth and difficulty swallowing. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other complications that, if untreated, may worsen over time.
Patients undergoing these treatments should be mindful of their oral health because of the increased risk of infections and oral pain, which can complicate or delay their cancer treatment. Regular check-ups with an oral surgeon or dentist experienced in treating cancer patients can prevent serious complications. Additionally, addressing oral health before beginning cancer treatment is essential to avoid complications later on, such as performing extractions or other invasive procedures, which could be dangerous during chemotherapy or radiation.
During treatment, patients must follow a gentle oral care routine. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using alcohol-free mouthwash can reduce irritation and prevent infection. Hydration is also crucial for combating dry mouth and maintaining healthy oral tissues.
Steps to Take Before Cancer Treatment Begins
The best time to address oral health in cancer patients is before treatment begins. A thorough oral examination by a dentist or oral surgeon can identify any existing problems, such as cavities, gum disease, or infections, that could worsen during cancer treatment. In many cases, dental procedures like fillings or extractions may need to be completed before beginning chemotherapy or radiation.
Creating an oral care plan is essential to reduce the likelihood of developing oral complications. The plan should include regular dental check-ups throughout cancer treatment and preventive measures like fluoride treatments to protect teeth from decay caused by dry mouth. Dentists may also recommend a special mouth rinse to reduce the risk of mouth sores, which are common during chemotherapy.
In addition to these steps, patients should be educated on how to monitor their oral health and recognize signs of potential issues, such as pain, swelling, or unusual changes in the mouth. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing more serious problems that could interrupt cancer treatment or worsen a patient’s overall condition.
Post-Treatment Oral Health Management
After cancer treatment, the mouth may take some time to fully recover, and ongoing care is essential to restoring and maintaining oral health. Patients should continue seeing their dentist or oral surgeon regularly for follow-up appointments, as complications can develop even after treatment ends. Salivary gland function may remain impaired for some time, increasing the risk of tooth decay and infection.
In cases where the patient has undergone radiation to the head and neck, long-term effects such as osteoradionecrosis (bone damage) may occur, requiring specialized care from an oral surgeon. Oral rehabilitation, including dental implants or reconstructive surgery, might be necessary to restore function and appearance, depending on the extent of the damage caused by cancer treatment.
At this stage, maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine remains crucial. Using prescription fluoride toothpaste, moisturizing rinses, and possibly artificial saliva can help mitigate long-term damage and discomfort. Patients should also continue monitoring their mouth for any changes and report any new symptoms to their dental provider immediately.
Why Choose Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group for Your Care?
At Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group, we are committed to providing comprehensive care that aligns with your overall cancer treatment plan. We understand the delicate balance between treating cancer and maintaining oral health, which is why we work closely with your oncology team to ensure optimal care. Dr. Nancy Herbst brings decades of experience and compassion to every patient, ensuring each treatment plan is tailored to meet individual needs and concerns.
Whether you need preventive care, ongoing oral health management during treatment, or post-treatment restorative procedures, we are here to help. Our team uses the latest technology to provide safe, effective, and comfortable care in a welcoming environment. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call us at (908) 663-5309 or visit our contact form. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to better oral health.
