Mucositis I Flashcards
What are the general measures a chemo patient should undertake to help prevent oral mucositis?
Inspect oral mucosa daily
Ask dentist to remove sources of trauma (fractured teeth, ill fitting prosthesis etc.)
Lubricate lips with non-occlusive agent
Drink ample fluids to keep mouth moist
Why is it not advisable for chemo patients to use petrolatum based lubricants?
They promote mucosal dehydration and are occlusive leading to risk of secondary infection
Why is it important for chemotherapy patients to request their dentists remove any sources of trauma from their mouth?
To reduce the risk of developing oral mucositis
What type of toothbrush is best to be used by chemotherapy patients at risk of oral mucositis?
Soft brush
How often should patients undergoing chemotherapy at risk of oral mucositis change their tooth brush?
Monthly
When and how often should chemo patients clean their teeth?
after meals and before sleep
twice a day
If chemo patients cannot tolerate a soft brush what else can they use to clean their teeth?
A swab
What type of toothpaste should they use to clean the dentition and gingiva?
Mild fluoride containing, non-foaming toothpaste
How should patients clean their teeth if they use a manual brush?
Bass or modified bass method
How should patients clean their teeth if they use an electric toothbrush?
According to product instructions
How should patients clean and store their brushes?
Clean brush thoroughly after use with water and store in a cup with brush head upwards
Should patients clean in between teeth e.g. using floss?
Only if they are used to doing so prior to Chemo treatment
Why should patients who do not normally clean between teeth (e.g. with floss etc) not start to do this once they have commenced chemotherapy?
It can break the epithelial barrier - visible through gingival bleeding
What type of mouthwash is recommended for chemotherapy patients?
Alcohol free mouthwash
When and how often should a patient use mouthwash?
On awakening and at least four times a day after brushing
How long should you hold the mouthwash in the mouth for?
1 minute
How much mouthwash should you use?
15 ml
Is it ok to eat after using mouthwash?
Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after using mouthwash
How should dentures be treated?
Remove dentures, brush with toothpaste and rinse with water, clean the gums
What precautions should be taken with dentures whilst in hospital?
Defer wearing dental prostheses as much as possible until the lining tissues of the mouth are healed
Soak dentures for 10 mins in antimicrobial solution (chlorheaxidine 0.2%) before inserting into mouth
What painful stimuli should be avoided to reduce the risk of oral mucositis?
Smoking
Alcohol
Certain foods (tomatoes, citrus fruits, hot drinks, spicy foods, hot, raw or crusty foods)
