Head and Neck Cancer Dental Care | Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

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To learn more or request an appointment, call 305-243-4922 or
email Survivorship Care.

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To learn more about cancer survivorship research at Sylvester, please call 305-243-3329 or
email Survivorship Research.

Radiation therapy for head and neck cancers can cause dental problems, such as cavities, dry mouth, infections, and sore gums. At Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, we help you maintain good oral health.

Preventing dental problems

You can prevent dental health problems during and after radiation therapy. These oral hygiene tips can keep your mouth and teeth healthy:

Avoid spicy foods, foods that may cut your gums, or sugary food and drinks that cause cavities
Brush your teeth, tongue, and gums with an extra-soft toothbrush after every meal
Drink plenty of water
For a dry mouth, chew sugarless gum to stimulate saliva or use a saliva substitute
Floss your teeth daily
Rinse your mouth regularly with a mixture of warm water and ¼ teaspoon each of baking soda and salt
Don’t smoke or drink alcohol
Use fluoride toothpaste and a fluoride rinse

See your dentist regularly for X-rays, cleanings, and fluoride treatments. If you have dental problems, your dentist may need to take extra precautions to protect your health – such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy after a tooth is removed to ensure your wound heals. Your care team will work closely with your dentist to keep an eye on your oral health to help prevent problems.

Smoking and alcohol cessation

Smoking and drinking alcohol are common causes of head and neck cancers, and they make cancer recurrence more likely. We understand quitting is difficult, but the team at Sylvester tries to make it a little easier for you.

Sylvester Survivorship and Supportive Care Institute