Did You Know: Head and Neck Cancer and Dental Health
Head and neck cancer treatment can significantly affect a patient’s dental health, so it’s important to keep an eye on it throughout the cancer journey. Take these tips from CARTI dentist Dr. Mackenzie Sitzman:
- See a dentist two weeks before beginning radiation therapy. This will help avoid complications with future dental treatment.
- For dry mouth, try a baking soda rinse. Radiation can cause the saliva consistency to thicken and gain a more acidic pH, stripping it of its ability to bathe the teeth and keep enamel healthy. A baking soda rinse of one cup of warm water, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda and a pinch of salt can help stabilize the pH of the saliva.
- Stay away from fluoride toothpastes and alcohol-based mouthwashes. These can irritate soft tissue during cancer treatment.
- See a dentist every three months. Normally patients are encouraged to see a dentist every six months, but head and neck cancer patients will need more frequent check-ins.
Hear more from Dr. Sitzman here:
Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Call us at (501) 906-3000 or visit us online.
