After cancer radiation treatments near the head and neck, patients experience a slow-down of saliva output called Xerostomia which is caused by suppressed mucous gland production. We also call this condition Dry-Mouth and it can be the source of both patient discomfort as well as potential dental problems. Some of the effects associated with Dry-Mouth are: altered taste, difficulty chewing and swallowing, increase in cavities, heightened incidents of gum disease and an increase in oralinfections. We can mitigate these complications by doing the following:
Patients who have undergone radiation therapy in the head or neck area are susceptible to bone infections (osteonecrosis) associated with tooth extraction, major jaw surgery or implant placement. In the event of necessary oral surgery post-radiation treatment, special precautions including antibiotic treatment is required. Better yet is trying to do all necessary extractions before cancer treatment is begun.