Mouth care
Some chemotherapy drugs can cause a sore mouth or small mouth ulcers. Good oral hygiene will help to minimise problems and if mouth ulcers become infected, treatment can be given to help clear the infection.
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- Clean your mouth and teeth gently every morning, evening and after each meal.
- Remove and clean dentures every morning, evening and after meals. Rinse mouth after removing dentures.
- If toothpaste stings or brushing makes you feel nauseous, try a mouthwash of bicarbonate of soda instead. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate in a mug of warm water.
- Use dental floss, with care, daily.
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If you have a dry mouth it may help to:
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- Sip fluids frequently, especially water, and eat moist foods;
- Keep your lips moist by using vaseline or lip balm.
- If your mouth is not sore, eating fresh pineapple chunks can help to keep it fresh and moist.
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| Discuss any dental problems with your doctor and when visiting your dentist let him know you are having chemotherapy. Undergoing dental work during treatment is generally not recommended. |
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