In a new edition of the series Beyond the Tumor: Answering Questions About Ovarian and Breast Cancer, organized by IVOQA and AMOH Asociación, dental aesthetics specialist Eugenia Cervantes addresses a fundamental yet often underestimated aspect: oral health care during cancer treatment. This focus is part of supportive oncology, which seeks to minimize treatment side effects and improve patients’ quality of life.
Why Is Oral Health Important in Oncology Patients?
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy can have significant adverse effects on the oral cavity. These effects not only impact the patient’s quality of life but may also interfere with the continuity of treatment if not properly managed.
Appropriate dental prevention can avoid serious complications, such as infections that require treatment interruption or painful lesions that affect eating.
Most Common Oral Side Effects
- Oral mucositis: painful inflammation of the oral mucosa.
- Xerostomia (dry mouth): decreased saliva production.
- Opportunistic infections: such as oral candidiasis.
- Taste alterations and tooth sensitivity.
- Cavities and periodontal disease due to changes in oral flora and hygiene.
These effects are part of the oral toxicity syndrome induced by cancer treatment, and early management is key to preventing more serious consequences.
Recommendations for Oral Care
Eugenia Cervantes highlights the importance of a dental evaluation before starting cancer treatment, as well as continuous monitoring during and after it. Key recommendations include:
- Maintaining rigorous oral hygiene with soft toothbrushes and alcohol-free mouthwashes.
- Avoiding very acidic, spicy, or hard foods.
- Frequently hydrating the oral mucosa.
- Using specific oral rinses.
- Consulting a dentist at the first sign of symptoms such as pain, ulcers, or bleeding.
Having an oral care guide tailored to oncology patients helps anticipate problems, reduce pain, and preserve oral function.
A Preventive and Interdisciplinary Approach
Oral care must be part of the comprehensive management of oncology patients. Collaboration among oncologists, dentists, and other health professionals helps prevent complications, improve adherence to treatment, and preserve patient quality of life. In centers such as IVOQA, this interdisciplinary approach ensures that oral health is not overlooked during the oncology process, becoming a key pillar in patient well-being.
