Skip to main content

Mouth Care for the Cancer Patient

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

AMBULATORY CARE:

Mouth care during and after cancer treatment

is important because it prevents and treats common side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. A dry mouth, an altered sense of taste, and mouth sores can make it hard for you to eat, swallow, or talk. Mouth sores could lead to a life-threatening infection. Mouth sores could also delay your treatment or make it less effective. Mouth care can decrease pain and help keep your treatment on schedule. It can also improve your quality of life and ability to eat.

Seek care immediately if:

Contact your healthcare provider or oncologist if:

Do not smoke:

Smoking can make mouth sores worse and delay healing after treatment. Smoking also increases your risk for new or returning cancer. Do not use e-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco in place of cigarettes or to help you quit. They still contain nicotine. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help quitting.

Brush and floss your teeth safely:

Rinse your mouth with a baking soda or salt solution:

Rinsing removes bacteria and food, and prevents or treats dry mouth, thick, sticky saliva, and mouth sores.

Prevent or treat a dry mouth:

Prevent or treat thick, sticky saliva:

Prevent or treat mouth sores:

Mouth care if you wear dentures:

It is still important to clean your gums and mouth if you wear dentures. If your dentures do not fit well, you may not want to wear them during chemotherapy treatment. Be extra careful when you put in or remove dentures. Try to prevent any injuries to your gums that could lead to sores or infection. Soak your dentures in denture solution at night to keep them free from bacteria.

Follow up with your healthcare provider or oncologist as directed:

Bring a list of any questions you have so you remember to ask them during your visits.

© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.