“How will chemo affect my oral health?”
I was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this month and I'm going to begin chemotherapy. Everything was discussed with my oncologist, but there's still a few questions that I want to ask. One of them regarding my oral health. Will chemotherapy have an effect on my dental hygiene?
5 Answers
Yes, one side effect is dry mouth, which increases plaque retention! Practice good oral hygiene at home, drink a lot of water, and see a dentist for preventive care!
Hello,
Chemotherapeutic drugs are very strong and many do have side effects. It is important to keep hydrated, as dry mouth is a complication with detrimental effects. Regular home care is very important. Keeping your health optimal during this phase is very important and as many illness occur via the mouth, keep your oral hygiene high on the to do list.
Hope this helps and wish you a speedy recovery!
Chemotherapeutic drugs are very strong and many do have side effects. It is important to keep hydrated, as dry mouth is a complication with detrimental effects. Regular home care is very important. Keeping your health optimal during this phase is very important and as many illness occur via the mouth, keep your oral hygiene high on the to do list.
Hope this helps and wish you a speedy recovery!
Dry mouth can lead to caries and ulcers or candida
First of all, I am sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis. Radiation usually has a bigger impact, with the potential of decreased salivary flow, which can then lead to an increase in decay. Not knowing what the chemo meds are, I am not sure what the side effects are, but certainly I would look into that. If dry mouth is a side effect, be sure to stay hydrated with WATER. Other beverages do not count. Xylitol-containing products (gum, mints) have been shown to combat the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Biotene is a rinse that can be used to help with dry mouth as well.
Even if dry mouth is not a side effect, it is extremely important to be very diligent with your home care, brushing 2-3 times daily and flossing every day. Your immune system is down, so flood your body with produce. The healthier you can keep your mouth, the healthier your body and vice versa. It is all connected.
Hope this helps and best wishes as you go through your treatment.
In health,
Dr. Rankin
Even if dry mouth is not a side effect, it is extremely important to be very diligent with your home care, brushing 2-3 times daily and flossing every day. Your immune system is down, so flood your body with produce. The healthier you can keep your mouth, the healthier your body and vice versa. It is all connected.
Hope this helps and best wishes as you go through your treatment.
In health,
Dr. Rankin
Keep hydrated and proper flossing and brushing techniques are good to follow.
