With chemotherapy and radiation therapy to the head or neck, patients may experience reduced saliva production. This can make eating and swallowing quite difficult and painful. Sipping liquids, taking small bites and chewing slowly can help. Many patients also develop sores in their mouths during radiation therapy to the head and neck and after chemotherapy. The soft tissues in the mouth become sensitive and irritated, while lips often crack and peel.
Dentists can treat sores and provide comfort with mouthrinses and pain relievers.
Muscle stiffness may also develop and a dentist may recommend special jaw exercises. Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, often reducing the blood's ability to clot. At this point, the patient would have to stop tooth brushing and the dentist can prescribe special mouthrinses to reduce plaque. If you have any questions on dental treatment during cancer therapy, be sure to Ask Your Dentist.