The current issue of CureToday.com (Wnter 2011) includes a good article regarding dental issues and cancer treatment. According to the National Cancer Institute, eliminating pre-existing dental and mucosal infections and instituting a comprehensive oral hygiene protocol before and throughout therapy can reduce the severity and frequency of oral complications from cancer therapy.
Of course, as with any disease, an ounce of prevention (or early diagnosis) is worth a pound of cure. Dr. Amble and Dr. Cashman, at Grand Avenue Dental, watch closely for signs that may indicate abnormal neck and oral issues, including early warning signs for cancer. They are well versed in dental health issues that may be caused, or exacerbated by, intensive cancer treatments and work with their patients to bring them to the best oral health possible prior to the start of such treatments. If you or someone you care about is planning to begin cancer treatments, please don’t hesitate to make an appointment to visit with one of the doctors to assure that your oral health is where it needs to be prior to beginning. There are also therapies that can be used to ease issues during treatments, such as salivary gland dysfunction, taste dysfunction, pain and dry mouth.
Please don’t suffer alone, let us help you through these trying times.