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Chemotherapy and Its Effects
Posted November 7, 2014 by Wager-Evans Dental
The Balance Within
Within your oral cavity exists millions of bacteria. There are good bacteria and there are bad bacteria. When this delicate balance of good and bad bacteria is disrupted serious problems can result. Chemotherapy consists of a cocktail of extremely strong drugs developed to kill cancer cells. However, drugs do not discriminate. They cannot target only bad cells. As a result, healthy cells are killed along with the cancer cells. This happens inside your mouth too.
The Effects
When the good bacteria and healthy cells in your mouth are killed your gums, saliva, and oral tissue is negatively affected. Without the good bacteria, the harmful bacteria are not kept in balance. Harmful bacteria can cause oral infections including periodontal disease. Other problems may develop as well, such as:
- Dry mouth
- Painful mouth and gums
- Burning, peeling, or swelling of the tongue
- Change in taste
Things You Can Do
There are things to do to help keep your mouth healthy during cancer treatments. In addition to your regular oral hygiene, it’s important to keep your mouth moist. To do so, drink plenty of water, suck on ice chips, chew sugar free gum, suck on hard sugar-free candy, or use a saliva substitute. Also rinse your mouth several times throughout the day with ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ¼ teaspoon salt in one quart of warm water.
About Your Reno Dentists
Dr. William Wager, Dr. Brian Evans, and our highly experienced team at Wager Evans Dental are devoted to our patients and their families, and dedicated to providing first-rate dental care in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, we proudly welcome residents from Spanish Springs, Sparks, Incline Village, Dayton, Fernley, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today by calling (775) 800-4845.
