While undergoing cancer treatment, patients may have many questions a well as concerns. While oral health is the least cared about, but prescriptions may often affect the health of your mouth. Even if there are side effects, we can help you strategically maintain your oral wellness.
Every year there are about 1.6 million new cases of cancer. Modern technologies and treatment modalities are helping win the battle against cancer now. The powerful Chemotherapy medications destroy cancer cells but may also affect the fragile tissues present in the mouth due to the exposure. It may result in ulcers developing in certain parts of the oral cavity and throat.
If you or your loved ones have ever experienced pain in the mouth during chemotherapy, then we would like to remind you that there are comforting options now. Visit your dentist and find the best option that suits you, Don’t treat yourself; we can prescribe a mouth rinse or other medicine that suits you best to soothe and coat painful lesions. All you have to do is use as we prescribe.
For Protection and Comfort
Radiation therapy carried out over the head and neck area may alter the health of your mouth. Radiation may affect the saliva glands in which we reduce or eliminate saliva output in the upcoming years. Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, may leave the mouth parched, causing discomfort. Special mouth rinses, certain kinds of toothpaste, etc., can help cancer patients affected with dry mouth.
Some drugs used for chemotherapy may create more serious jawbone damage, which is called osteonecrosis (ONJ). This condition may end up causing tooth infection, tooth removal, or gum disease. You can protect yourself from the potential side effect through a thorough dental evaluation before beginning the chemotherapy treatment.
We Are With You
We understand that cancer might be challenging, but we are here to help you before, during, and after your therapy sessions. Having healthy teeth help in living the rest of life to the fullest.
Dr. Peter Yeh, DDS at Covington Signature Dentistry, can help improve the oral health of our patients while transforming their smiles. Feel free to call us at (253) 638-9955 or schedule an appointment online. You can discuss any concerns or questions you may have that can help you maintain your oral health through their cancer care.