It is extremely important to look after your teeth at all times.  Looking after your teeth is one of the most important things you can do after treatment for head and neck cancer. Your dentist is an important part of the multidisciplinary team, so make sure you continue to have regular dental check-ups every three to six months. Following a regular mouth care routine agreed with your dentist or dental hygienist can help to protect your teeth.

You can also:

• use fluoride products prescribed by your dentist
• only have sugary and acidic foods and drinks at mealtimes
• don’t smoke
• if you notice a change in your mouth or teeth, don’t wait for your regular check-up. Go and see your dentist immediately.

The following leaflet provides advice on looking after your teeth, especially following radiotherapy treatment.

You can watch a presentation on oral health following cancer treatment below: https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/loB8_3a_JpEBfXqFCsHDjPPHU6LSslfABF4_pWj0ZQn9K2i_pAkv-1bZYno5cyjj.GFFPVoOjhdz4XfeJ

Dry mouth and changes in saliva

Radiotherapy and chemoradiotherapy to the head and neck area can affect your salivary glands, causing your mouth to be dry and your saliva to be thick or sticky.  This may gradually recover after treatment but some people have a dry mouth permanently.

Having a dry mouth can be uncomfortable and can affect speaking, eating and sleeping.  It can also make you more likely to get tooth decay.

The following tips may prove helpful to relieve and manage mouth dryness:

• One of the simplest ways is to carry a bottle of water with you. You can take frequent sips of water or you could use a water spray instead.
• Artificial saliva can also help moisten your mouth and throat. It’s designed to be the same consistency and thickness as saliva. It comes as gels, sprays, mouthwashes, pastilles or tablets. It is worth trying different types to find out which on suits you best. Your doctor or dentist can prescribe artificial saliva or you can buy it from a chemist.  For longer-lasting relief at night, try putting the gel on your tongue and around the inside of your mouth.
• Be aware of foods and drinks that can irritate a dry mouth, such as spicy, salty or hard and crunchy foods.
• Avoid alcohol (especially spirits) and caffeine, as they can also irritate a dry mouth.
• Don’t smoke – smoking dries and irritates the mouth.
• Use a lip salve to protect your lips.
• Try using a humidifier in your bedroom at night.
• Avoid toothpastes with foaming agents as these can make your mouth dry.
• Chewing sugar-free gum as this may help stimulate saliva.

Speak to your dentist or your head and neck specialist team to explore other options to help relieve your mouth dryness.