Dr. Nicholas Papapetros, D.M.D. Explains How to Take Good Care of Your Mouth during Cancer Treatment

ANDOVER, Mass. - Dec. 30, 2014 - PRLog -- Your overall health is never more important than ever when you’re battling a serious disease. There are a lot of things going through your mind when you’re diagnosed with cancer. But it’s important to remember that every aspect of your health is important. You need to take good care of yourself with proper nutrition, exercise, and plenty of rest. And another important way that you can care for yourself is to pay close attention to your dental health.

If you’re being treated for cancer, it’s important to protect your teeth, gums, and mouth. You want to make sure that you don’t neglect your oral health, or it could come back to haunt you when you’ve finished your treatment. Some cancer treatments can affect your oral health, and your dentist will be able to stay on top of any problems that arise if you adhere to regular visits while you’re undergoing treatment.

Here are a few concrete ways that you can ensure that your mouth is getting the care that it needs:

·       Keep brushing, but be gentle. Using an extra-soft toothbrush can minimize any gum pain while still keeping your mouth clean. Brush frequently – after every meal, at bedtime, and any time you’re experiencing a “bad taste” due to chemotherapy or other treatment. Your dentist can advise you about the best toothpaste to manage your dental needs.

·       Keep flossing. Flossing every day helps to keep plaque to a minimum. If your gums are bleeding or it hurts to floss, consult your dentist about how to best address the problem.

·       Maintain your oral environment. Keeping your mouth moist can be a problem with some cancer treatments that reduce the production of saliva. Rinsing your mouth regularly with water, hydrating well, and avoiding mouthwashes that contain alcohol are all ways to keep your mouth moist and healthy. If necessary, your dentist can recommend a saliva substitute to help combat dry mouth.

·       Choose your diet carefully. Certain foods can either be beneficial or have a negative impact on oral health. This concern can be intensified during cancer treatment. Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, and overly crunchy snacks. Opt instead for soft foods that are easy to chew. Overly hot or cold foods can be difficult to manage, so opt instead for lukewarm foods and beverages.

·       Manage pain. If it’s difficult to open your mouth, speak to your dentist about oral exercises that you can do to eliminate pain and strengthen your jaw. Your dentist will also be able to help with pain in your gums or teeth. Make sure to schedule a visit any time that you experience any problems with your oral health.

Every cancer is different and every cancer treatment is different. But by working with your dentist to manage your dental health during treatment, you’ll ensure that you’re in better dental condition once you’ve finished treatment and you’re headed toward a cancer-free future.

Would you like to know more? Visit www.SmileShrewsbury.com, www.smileandover.com, and www.smilesbystiles.com for more information.