The Tribune

By Donnette Sands

Registered Dental Hygienist

Most people are aware of hair loss with chemotherapy. But many don't realise that more than one-third of people being treated for breast cancer can develop complications that affect the mouth. Pre-existing or untreated oral disease can even complicate cancer treatment. This is one reason to make sure you visit your dentist at least one month before beginning cancer treatment for an examination and thorough dental cleaning.

The mouth is made of cells that renew themselves daily. Since chemotherapy and radiation target certain types of cells that regenerate quickly even under normal circumstances, your mouth will be susceptible to damage. If you minimise plaque build up by practicing good oral hygiene, you can decrease the side effects of treatment for breast cancer.

Here are a few oral care recommendations:

1. Brush with a soft toothbrush to clean your teeth and gums, changing every three months and following a cold/flu.

2. Floss gently and daily.

3. Only use alcohol-free mouthwash, but choose one preferably containing fluoride.

4. When white blood cells counts are reported by your physician to be low, avoid dental treatment.

5. Dental treatment should be avoided for about a week after any chemotherapy treatment.

6. Use toothpaste and chewing gum with xylitol, which helps prevent cavities.

7. Keep up with your regular dental visits to identify problems before they develop.

8. If you wear dentures, make sure you keep them clean and that they fit well. Make sure to take them out at night with daily cleaning.

9. Ask your dental hygienist/dentist about fluoride treatments following your dental cleanings to help prevent cavities.

10. Travel with water to stay hydrated and help fight dry mouth.

Learning that you have breast cancer can be devastating news for you and your loved ones. Being aware of the side effects will help you to avoid many potential problems in other areas of your body. By practicing optimal home oral care, you will decrease harmful oral bacterial levels as well as side effects which result from breast cancer treatment.

Breast cancer treatment should be a concerted effort with your oncologist, physician, and your dentist and dental hygienist all working together as a comprehensive breast cancer fighting treatment team.

• Please contact your dental professional for further information on how you can move forward smiling while embracing life's many seasons. Feel free to contact Donnette Sands at newprovidencedental@gmail.com for tips on maintaining a flawless, healthy smile.