Hints Along the Way
To keep your oral cavity in shape, put extra effort into small elements of daily behavior. Make sure you're getting enough vitamin D and calcium during the day by taking in these nutrients through milk, cheese, fruit juices, fortified cereals or supplements that, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, can strengthen your jaw and teeth. Though, you'll want to check with your doctor before consuming any supplements.
Drink cold water to keep your mouth moist and soothed while preventing dehydration. And just like you would otherwise, take special care of your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing gently. Follow up by rinsing with a mouthwash that won't irritate your mouth, such as Colgate® Peroxyl® Mouth Sore Rinse, whose lack of alcohol allows you to heal your mouth irritations. Also, avoid foods that are too hot, cold, spicy, acidic or crunchy – all of which can cause irritation if you're prone to tooth sensitivity during a cancer treatment cycle.
Your oral health is vital to your overall health when receiving radiation treatment, so make it a top priority. Schedule a dentist appointment before you start your treatment (if you haven't yet, book one right away), so that you and your dentist can work together on a dental care plan that keeps you and your mouth healthy and complication-free.