One of the first things they mentioned about teeth hygiene is to get a teeth cleaning prior to the start of chemo. First, you don't want the bad bacteria that is present in the mouth (eg like plaque or tartar) because it can get into your bloodstream. And since the immune system will be majorly compromised by chemotherapy, you don't want this bacteria to become opportunistic and wreak Havoc on the already weakened system. Better to start the war as healthy as possible -- and teeth cleaning is part of the combat training.
Like post mastectomy, chemotherapy will also make my mouth get very dry and it will produce mouth sores. However, there are ways to lessen the effects -- and even possibly avoid (still hopeful!). One way is to keep hydrated and to keep the inner mouth area clean and lubricated. Using gentle tooth paste and mouth wash that is gentle (Biotene is the popular med brand that can be found in most pharmacies) will help. I've read in several places that brushing after every snack or meal and using mouthwash at least 5 times a day will help -- so I'll be going through A LOT of mouthwash and tooth paste.
Many folks preparing for chemo are so busy learning the game, preparing for this battle with other appointments, and just doing life in general. So, going to an actual dentist is a battle in itself. Home-health practices are out there -- and I'm just so blessed that one of my close friends (and training teammates) is a home-health care professional who specializes in teeth hygiene. She texted me yesterday morning and said she wanted to come over and gift me with this visit. I eagerly accepted and it was such a wonderful experience. I got to stay in my own home, pull out my post-maternity comfy chair, and enjoy conversation. She was gentle, thorough, passionately skilled, compassionate (I highly recommend her!). My son even got to participate and help out as her assistant. AND she even brought several packs of Biotene to get me through this next phase of cancer -- chemo! Thank you, dearest friend! I'm forever grateful.
breastcancer.org info link on what to do before chemo:
http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/chemotherapy/process/before
Yay Lindsey!
ReplyDeleteLooks like you were advised on a good non-alcohol based mouthwash. Biotene also has a spray moisturizer and a gel. My recent appt with a hygeniest helped me find the softest tooth brush I've ever had. It is made in Sweden by a company called TePe. The model I got was TEPE Supreme - soft. Ordered them on line. Before this the softest I could find were kids brushes but they are harder to grip.
ReplyDeleteSue Beem