There are over one million Americans diagnosed with some form of cancer each year. Of them, more than 400,000 will develop some form of oral complications from the various modes of treatments. Dentists can aid in decreasing these complications by administering good oral care and sound oral hygiene measures.

Some of the most common complications that occur orally during chemotherapeutic and radiation therapies include, ulcerations, tissue inflammation, bleeding, infections and salivary flow dysfunction. What may occur as a result of these complications is dry mouth (xerostomia), cavities, as a result of the radiation, gingival (gum) breakdown, slowly healing, and bone infections.

These complications can, as a result, affect the cancer treatment. Often, the oncologist cannot administer further treatments, due to these oral complications. This postponement can affect the overall treatment and even the life of the individual. Also, the patients quality of life is decreased due to the discomfort in the mouth. This, in turn, can cause emotional disturbance for the patient.

A good, sound dental evaluation, prior to cancer therapy, can help decrease these complications. The dentist can perform necessary oral care , as well as supportive care during therapy, allowing the patient to go on with treatment with a minimal of problems.

The patient will have less anxiety by maintaining good oral hygiene during cancer treatment, which will help significantly with the overall success of the treatment.

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