oral aspects of cancer care Flashcards
what can be oral complications of cancer therapy?
ulceration damage to salivary glands xerostomia infections- candidiasis loss of taste dysphagia osteoradionecrosis
what should the aims be of local treatment?
protect ulcerated areas
relieve pain
reduce inflammation
What is mucositis?
acute inflammation of the mucosa
how does mucositis present?
white/yellow fibrinous slough often with ulceration and bleeding unpleasant odour painful to speak/eat/swallow inability to tolerate prosthesis
how long does it take for mucositis to heal?
2-3 weeks
how should mucositis be managed?
soft toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste
chlorhexidine mw if toothbrushing compromised
hydrogen peroxid dilute MW short term
MW can be applied with gauze or sponge
topical analgesics prior to eating
soft, bland, non cariogenic diet at low temperature
alcohol and tobacco must be avoided
how long after treatment begins may patients experience problems with salivary glands??
3-4 days
how does impairment of salivary glands affect the patient?
increased susceptibility to candidal/viral infection
increased risk of demineralisation
mastication and swallowing impaired
dry mucosa may make wearing prosthesis uncomfortable
how can xerostomia be managed?
pilocarpine therapy saliva substitutes water atomiser avoid dry foods and sucking sugary sweets chew sugar free gum
what surface of the tooth is susceptible to radiation caries?
exposed root surfaces
lesions gradually encircle the necks of the teeth
management of radiation caries?
increase preventative measures
daily fluoride application or MW or 2800 ppm tp
saliva subsitute
What are fungal infections related to?
hyposalvation
how should fungal infections be managed?
treated with anti fungal agents
nystatin
miconazole spray
What is dysgeusia?
altered or loss of taste
when does taste return to normal after cancer therapy?
2-4 months after
