Cancer Treatment Chemotherapy Chemotherapy and Your Mouth By Lisa Fayed Lisa Fayed is a freelance medical writer, cancer educator and patient advocate. Learn about our editorial process Lisa Fayed Fact checked by Fact checked by Ashley Hall on June 28, 2020 linkedin Ashley Hall is a writer and fact checker who has been published in multiple medical journals in the field of surgery. Learn about our editorial process Ashley Hall Updated on June 28, 2020 Print Oral and dental side effects of chemotherapy aren't the first ones that come to mind, but they are common. The cells lining the oral cavity are fast-growing and can be damaged by chemotherapy. Drugs used in chemotherapy work by killing rapidly-growing cells. Cancer cells are typically the fastest growing cells in the body and they are the intended target. Unfortunately, chemotherapy also may attack healthy cells which normally also grow quickly, including those in your mouth. Christopher Robbins / Photodisc / Getty Images Problems Chemotherapy Causes in the Mouth Mouth soresInfectionsDry mouthBleeding of the gums and lining of the mouthGeneral soreness and pain of the mouth Oral Side Effects Can Be Serious Infection is one of the greatest concerns when being treated with chemotherapy. It is much harder to fight an infection during chemotherapy because the immune system is not as strong. Serious infections can lead to your doctor delaying chemotherapy treatment or lowering the dosages of your treatment. Eating and swallowing also may become difficult, possibly causing nutritional deficiencies. Foods may taste different because of effects on the tongue and taste buds from chemotherapy. Preventing Oral Problems Prevention of oral problems during chemotherapy begins before treatment even starts. Your doctor may suggest you see a dentist and dental hygienist a few weeks before chemotherapy. They may refer you to a dentist that specializes in caring for patients undergoing chemotherapy. At the dental visit, you can expect: A thorough exam of your mouth and gumsDental X-raysCleaning by a dental hygienistInstructions on how to care for your mouth and teethDental work to fix any cavities or other dental problems If you wear dentures, it is important that they fit well during chemotherapy. Talk to your dentist to get this addressed if it is a problem. Mouth Care During Chemotherapy During chemotherapy, follow your dentist's instructions for caring for your mouth. Your oncologist may prescribe a special mouthwash that will help prevent mouth sores that could lead to infection.Avoid food with sharp edges, like tortilla chips, that could possibly scratch or cut the gums or inner lining of the mouth. You may also want to cut out spicy or acidic foods and drinks because they can cause mouth irritation. Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products should be avoided as well.Avoid using toothpicks while on chemotherapy as they can cut your mouth.Maintain normal oral hygiene like brushing at least twice a day and flossing gently every day. Brushing with a soft head toothbrush may prevent unnecessary irritation and bleeding by the gums. Avoid any bleeding or sore areas while flossing. Mouthwashes can be used, but do not use a type that contains alcohol.Experts recommend sipping water, eating ice chips, and keeping the mouth moist. Chewing sugarless gum and candies can help prevent dryness and irritation.If you experience any oral problems during treatment, let your doctor know. Medication can be prescribed to reduce pain, plus your doctor will want to monitor any side effects closely. Oral Problems After Chemotherapy Oral problems usually go away after treatment ends. However, some people continue to experience oral problems following chemotherapy. Make sure your doctor and dentist are aware of any persistent side effects. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Limiting processed foods and red meats can help ward off cancer risk. These recipes focus on antioxidant-rich foods to better protect you and your loved ones. Sign up and get your guide! Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit Article Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Facts about adult oral health. Updated December 19, 2019. NIH. Chemotherapy and your mouth.