If you have been diagnosed with cancer, we understand the diagnosis itself is enough to negatively impact your body, mind, and spirit. No matter the type of cancer, the treatment methods can cause a wide array of side effects, all of which are worth it as long as it eliminates cancer. You may associate chemotherapy with vomiting or hair loss, but it can also create problems for your dental health. Find out how dentistry after cancer in Boca Raton can restore your smile and have you back to your old self again.
How Does Cancer Impact My Oral Health?
From mild to severe, the side effects of cancer treatment can wreak havoc on your oral health. Chemotherapy can weaken your immune system, which makes it more difficult for your body to fight off infections like tooth decay or gum disease, especially if your mouth was not healthy prior to treatment. What is worse is if the infection is bad enough, your cancer treatment can be delayed, and when time is of the essence, you can’t afford a postponement.
Just like chemotherapy, radiation can harm your salivary glands and cause dry mouth. When your mouth dries out, bacteria can build up on your tongue, around the gum line, and on your teeth. This leads to tooth decay and infection.
What Methods Are Used to Restore My Smile?
While you are in the process of receiving treatment for cancer, make sure your dentist is aware, so he can take proper care of your oral health. Once you are through your treatment, your dentist in Boca Raton will be able to instruct you in how you can take care of your teeth. Some ways include:
- Brushing and flossing regularly
- Rinsing your mouth as often as possible
- Choosing nutritious foods
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings
If you discover that you need extensive dental repairs after cancer treatment, it is in your best interest to see a prosthodontist because of their ability to design, create, and fit artificial replacements for teeth or areas of the mouth. Some of the dental repairs you may need that a prosthodontist can fix include missing teeth, damaged teeth from tooth decay, or even gum disease. The good news is you can treat all these problems with the use of restorative or cosmetic treatment, some of which may include:
- Dental Implants
- Dentures
- Crowns
- Porcelain Veneers
We know you’ve been through enough. Cancer is a tough battle, and you already have enough to think about. Just like you have the rest of your cancer team helping you through the process, make sure your dentist is part of this team.
About the Author
Dr. Steven H. Feit, DMD, is a prosthodontist you can trust. Earning his Bachelor of Science from Muhlenberg College, he went on to achieve his Doctor of Dental Medicine from New Jersey Dental School. He then completed his Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Prosthodontics from the Goldman School of Graduate Dentistry at Boston University. To learn more about Dr. Feit, or for questions about our services, visit our website or call (561) 338-7535.