8 Ways to Keep Your Mouth Healthy During Cancer Treatment

When it comes to dental health, we all know the drill: brush your teeth at least twice a day, don't forget to floss and visit your dentist on a regular basis.

Cancer however, can throw a wrench in your dental hygiene routine. As chemotherapy treatments fight the cancer cells in your body, it can lower white blood cell, platelet and red blood cell counts throughout the body, increasing your risk for infections like gum diseases, dental abscesses and cavities.

Cancer treatments can also harm normal cells, including the cells in your mouth. Chemotherapy can affect your mucosa and gums, as well as the glands that make saliva. Additionally, both chemotherapy and radiation treatment can cause mucositis, a side effect that involves an inflammation of the lining of the mouth and can lead to red, painful sores.

There are several things patients can do maintain good oral hygiene and ease mouth pain during cancer treatment. Read our eight essential tips over at What's New in GU, a blog from our Genitourinary (GU) Oncology Program.