Importance of Oral Hygiene During Cancer Treatment
Many patients affected by oral cancer and receiving treatment often neglect oral hygiene during cancer treatment. Moreover, treating cancer surgeons may overlook the need to educate patients on the same. This blog highlights the importance of oral hygiene during cancer treatment and provides a step-by-step guide on how and when to start maintaining it.
Oral hygiene during oral cancer treatment is one of the most crucial aspects of faster healing after oral cancer surgery. It helps control bacterial growth in the mouth, preventing colonization of the raw operated site, which could otherwise delay the healing process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Maintaining Oral Hygiene After Oral Cancer Surgery
1. Irrigation After Surgery
- On the third day after surgery, when the patient feels comfortable, the operated site should be irrigated gently with a low-pressure irrigation system.
- A simple syringe (without a needle) filled with diluted betadine or chlorhexidine can be used initially for irrigation in the hospital.
- After initial healing (5 to 7 days later), a power-spray unit (such as Colgate Blast Water Flosser or Oracura Smart Plus Water Flosser) can be used at home.
- The pressure from these spray units ensures effective cleaning by reaching all parts of the surgical area.
- The patient should receive a demonstration on how to use these devices before discharge from the hospital.
2. Brushing After Surgery
- Patients are usually apprehensive about resuming tooth brushing due to concerns that it may harm the operated site.
- However, plaque and food debris accumulate daily and must be removed to prevent bacterial growth.
- Using a soft or super-soft toothbrush to gently clean the teeth on the opposite side can help speed up healing.
- In conscious and cooperative patients, brushing must be initiated about two weeks after surgery.
3. Use of Medicated Mouthwash
- Medicated mouthwash (alcohol-free), prescribed by a dental oncologist or oncosurgeon, must be used frequently.
- It should be done under the supervision of family members to ensure proper usage and effectiveness.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide for Healing
- During the fourth week of healing, a 1:1 dilution of 3% hydrogen peroxide in water can be added to the oral hygiene routine.
- A sponge-tipped applicator may be used to gently clean the skin graft portion of the defect.
- After cleaning the surgical site, other soft tissues in the mouth, such as the tongue, cheek, and hard palate, should also be cleaned gently.
Following this systematic oral hygiene routine during cancer treatment helps in the faster healing of surgical wounds inside the mouth. Proper oral hygiene during cancer treatment ensures faster tissue repair and prevents bad odor. Younger patients should be encouraged to perform these steps independently with the assistance of family members.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is good oral hygiene especially important for older adults?
Good oral hygiene is crucial for older adults because aging can lead to reduced saliva production, increased risk of infections, and difficulty in self-care. Maintaining oral hygiene during cancer treatment in elderly patients prevents complications such as gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
How to improve oral hygiene in children?
To improve oral hygiene in children:
- Encourage brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Make flossing a daily habit.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups.
- Educate them on the importance of oral hygiene in a fun and interactive way.
What is an oral hygiene routine?
An oral hygiene routine includes:
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing at least once a day.
- Using mouthwash to reduce bacteria and freshen breath.
- Staying hydrated to maintain saliva production.
- Regular dental check-ups for early detection of any issues.
By following these steps, maintaining oral hygiene during cancer treatment becomes more manageable, leading to better overall oral health and faster recovery.
