If possible, any dental work you need should be performed before chemotherapy begins. Later, problems in your mouth may be more complicated and harder to treat. Tooth decay, for example, can become a serious problem, and removing a tooth will require special care. It is also important that you learn how to maintain a healthy mouth to avoid future oral problems. Even if you wear dentures, you need to be evaluated by a dentist.
Research shows that preventive dental care can reduce the oral complications of cancer treatment.
The initial appointment with a dentist should include examination of the mouth and teeth and dental x-rays. This examination allows the dentist to diagnose conditions that require treatment. In consultation with your physician, the dentist will plan dental treatment to meet your individual needs. Treatment may include filling decayed teeth or removing infected or badly decayed teeth. Dental staff should clean your teeth and show you how to control the plaque in your mouth that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.