How Cancer Affects Dental Health
Medical experts believe that cancer is when mutations in the DNA occur as cells turn over. Damaged cells beget even more damaged cells, and so on. As DNA damage occurs, the usual mechanisms controlling the cell’s lifespan fail. The result is uncontrollable growth and proliferation. Several researchers have shown that cancer is a disease of Redox imbalance. This means oxidation and inflammation outweigh the body’s antioxidant capabilities, resulting in genetic mutations and cancer. 1/3 of people treated for cancer develop complications affecting the mouth and teeth. Dental health side effects can be caused by chemotherapy, radiation, pain medications, and other prescriptions used in the fight against cancer.
Being diagnosed with cancer is arguably one of life’s most traumatic events, but it’s essential that you speak to your dentist about your diagnosis. Treatment during cancer may cause oral health changes, leading to mouth sores, infections, and tooth decay. We need to assess the health of your teeth and mouth in the context of proposed cancer treatments and determine if any dental work is required before you commence your treatment. Patients at the highest risk of oral complications include those receiving radiation to the head and neck region, those who need bone marrow transplants, or patients receiving specific chemotherapy agents. We know it is a difficult situation, and we are here to guide and support you in this process.
Chemotherapy and radiation treatment can have oral side effects:
- Soreness and ulcers in the mouth
- Gum infections
- Bleeding gums
- Dry mouth
- Altered taste
Unfortunately, chemotherapy does not only target cancer cells. Healthy tissues can be damaged too. Many chemotherapy regimens can cause oral mucositis, where the mouth tissue becomes inflamed and potentially ulcerated. Have an at-home dental care plan. This should include brushing and flossing after every meal, using prescription toothpaste, avoiding hard foods, and refraining from nicotine products. Healthy bones mean healthy teeth, so eat foods rich in Vitamin D and calcium, which help your jaw and teeth stay strong. Be aware of sugar and acid. Sugary or acidic foods and drinks can cause numerous dental health issues. Try to eat soft, moist, high-protein foods, and take small bites, chewing slowly and sipping liquids with meals. Ask your doctor if supplements are good options for you. Drinking water throughout the day can help with dry mouth and other complications. Schedule dental visits to identify and prevent severe oral problems before they develop.
Dental cleanings and treatments before starting radiation and chemotherapy are very important; we make cancer patients a priority. Chemotherapy affects saliva production, leading to dry mouth and severe dental implications. Please, if you are diagnosed with cancer, we urge you to get to call our office so that we can help you protect your teeth. Dental health can harm mental health. No one should have to hide their smile. Cancer alone causes financial toxicity, and out-of-pocket dental costs can be astronomical.
Please call Alpha Plus Dental at (617) 277-6969 to learn more about dental health and how we can help you. Schedule your consultation with the best dentists in Brookline, MA!
