The Dentist and Dental Hygienist at the UPMC Head and Neck Cancer Survivorship Clinic are here to help you maintain your oral health throughout your cancer journey.
Making sure you are at optimal dental health before treatment is necessary to avoid the need for emergency dental care during treatment and establish the proper home care routine.
Radiation can affect many things in your mouth. Most common is xerostomia, or dry mouth. The result of dry mouth is that patients are at a higher risk for tooth decay (cavities). Patients may also be more prone to soft tissue problems like the worsening of gum disease. Both of these issues are prevented by following our recommendations for the use of prescription toothpaste and fluoride trays as well as seeing the dental hygienist and dentist every three months after treatment.
Our dental team will also make sure patients and their dental providers are aware of all current recommendations regarding future dental surgeries that may be impacted by radiation of the jaws.
We are here to see patients before, during, and after radiation as well as to consult with private dentists to make sure patients are set up for success regarding their oral health.