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Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) Due to Cancer Treatment

Dry mouth is a feeling of aridness in the patient's mouth. Patient complaint is often the only criteria many dentists have to confirm a diagnosis of dry mouth, technically called xerostomia. Dry mouth manifests itself as a side effect of many medications and treatment regimes. There are many causes of dry mouth, but one of the most predictable is dry mouth due to cancer treatment. This is because the radiation of cancer treatment causes dry mouth symptoms because it damages not only cancer cells, but also those of the salivary glands which manufacture saliva. Saliva acts as a moisturizer and lubricant and inadequate production will lead to dry mouth.

Cancer treatments lead to dry mouth for those who are undergoing radiation especially of the head and neck. This is because radiation is directed to the specific body part affected in order to less its damage to the rest of the body. Dry mouth due to cancer treatment is diagnosed and treated in the same way that it is from other causes.

Following a diagnosis of dry mouth, or in anticipation of it prior to undergoing cancer treatment to cause dry mouth, several steps must be taken to ease the discomfort and to protect the mouth. Saliva acts to protect the teeth and tissues. This is why the patient must be ready to work closely with his dentist in order to prevent damage to his teeth and gums.

Proper oral hygiene can help to prevent cavities and bad breath which manifest themselves in the presence of dry mouth caused by cancer treatment. Saliva acts to rinse away bacteria which causes cavities and bad breath. Frequent sips of water can temporarily help to rinse away bacteria when the patient is unable to brush or floss. The patient must be made aware that he should not drink acidic or sugar-containing drinks, or use sugary gums or candy, to quench his thirst. Acid and sugars will eat away at the tooth enamel and increase the likelihood of cavities. To counter the effects of dry mouth from cancer treatment, the dentist might prescribe a mouthwash, gel, or a saliva substitute for the patient to use. These should be used as directed in order for the dry mouth cancer treatment patient to gain the full benefits.

Cancer treatment that causes dry mouth should be addressed by a dentist since, in addition to cavities and bad breath, dry mouth can make dental appliances painful to wear. The dentist can make recommendations, including possibly refitting dental hardware such as dentures and bridges. Gels or adhesives could be given to the patient to alleviate discomfort caused by the appliances rubbing against dry mouth tissues.

Any patient about to undergo cancer treatment should be warned about developing dry mouth, and the patient should in turn discuss the condition with his dentist in order to preserve his oral health.