Proper Oral Care During Cancer Treatment

Proper Care Before, During and After Cancer Treatment

Good dental hygiene may help prevent or reduce complications. It is important to keep a close watch on your oral health during cancer treatment. Keeping the mouth, teeth and gums clean during and after cancer treatment may help decrease complications such as mouth sores and infections.

Follow These Steps to Maintain a Healthy Mouth During Treatment:

Optimal oral hygiene is imperative during your cancer treatment. Dr. Susan Calderbank, B.S., D.M.D., an expert in oral health for patients undergoing chemotherapy, has partnered with The Natural Dentist to offer the following tips for a proper oral hygiene program to help maintain a healthy mouth during cancer treatment:

During Treatment – Optimal oral hygiene is imperative during your cancer treatment. You will also want to do your best to maintain adequate nutrition. Recommended oral hygiene routine during this time includes:

• Clean your mouth every 4 hours and at bed time. More often if mucositis becomes worse.
• Brush with a very soft (pediatric) toothbrush. Replace it often.
• Use a gentle, fluoride toothpaste like The Natural Dentist All In One Toothpaste or, if you prefer, The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Fluoride-Free Gum Health Toothpaste.
• Floss regularly, avoiding any areas that bleed or are sore.
• Rinse often with a soothing, germ-killing mouth rinse with no alcohol or harsh chemicals, preservatives or dyes like The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Antigingivitis Rinse.
• Talk to your dentist about any special treatments you may need.
• Stay away from sharp, crunchy foods, like taco chips, that could scrape or cut your mouth.
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco products.
• Examine your mouth every day for sores or other changes.
• Do your best to maintain adequate nutrition.

For more information, please read the NIH guide to oral care during cancer treatment.