What are some oral hygiene tips?
Good mouth care may not prevent side effects to your mouth, but it helps prevent infection and the spread of infection. Good mouth care also helps reduce the risk of further reaction on tissue. Lastly, good oral hygiene prevents bad breath, leaves a fresh feeling in your mouth, and improves your appetite. Here are some tips: • Examine your mouth and gums daily. Your health care provider may recommend that you see your dentist before your radiation treatments begin. • Brush your teeth after each meal with a small, soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use foam sticks instead of a toothbrush if your gums are especially sore. Keep dentures clean and fitting properly. • Use dental floss daily. • Avoid commercial mouthwashes or lozenges that contain a high concentration of alcohol — they may irritate or dry your mouth. • Prepare a gargle by dissolving one teaspoon each of salt and baking soda in a quart of warm water. (A smaller portion of this can be made by stirring 1/4 teaspoon each
