Some people who get radiation to the head and neck have redness and soreness in the mouth, a dry mouth, trouble swallowing, changes in taste, or nausea. Other possible side effects include a loss of taste, earaches, and swelling. You may lose your hair, your skin texture might change, and your jaw may feel stiff.

If you get radiation therapy to the head or neck, you need to take good care of your teeth, gums, mouth, and throat.

Here are a few tips that may help you manage mouth problems:

• Avoid spices and coarse foods such as raw vegetables, dry crackers, and nuts.
• Do not eat or drink very hot or very cold foods.
• Do not smoke, chew tobacco, or drink alcohol because tobacco and alcohol can make mouth sores worse.
• Stay away from sugary snacks.
• Ask your doctor or nurse to recommend a good mouthwash. The alcohol content in some mouthwashes has a drying effect on mouth tissues.
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water every 1 to 2 hours as needed. (Use 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 quart of water.)
• Sip cool drinks often throughout the day.
• Eat sugar-free candy or chew gum to help keep your mouth moist.
• Moisten food with gravies and sauces to make eating easier.
• Ask your doctor or nurse about medicines to help treat mouth sores and control pain while eating.

If these measures are not enough, ask your dentist about artificial saliva. Mouth dryness may be a problem even after treatment is over.

Dental care

Radiation treatment of your head and neck can increase your chances of getting cavities. Mouth care to prevent problems will be an important part of your treatment. Before starting radiation therapy, get a complete check-up with your dentist. Ask your dentist to talk with your radiation oncologist before your treatments begin. If you have problem teeth, your dentist may suggest you have them removed before starting treatment. Radiation (and dry mouth) may damage them to the point where they will need to be removed. This may be harder to do after treatment has started.

If you wear dentures, they may no longer fit well because of swollen gums. If your dentures cause gum sores, you may need to stop wearing them until your radiation therapy is over because these sores can become infected.

Your dentist probably will want to see you during your radiation therapy to talk to you about caring for your mouth and teeth and help you deal with any soreness. Most likely, you will be told to do the following:

• Clean your teeth and gums with a very soft brush after meals and at least one other time each day.

• Use fluoride toothpaste that contains no abrasives.

• Use unwaxed dental tape to gently floss between teeth once a day.

• Rinse your mouth well with cool water or a baking soda solution after you brush. (Use 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 1 quart of water.)

Last Medical Review: 12/23/2008
Last Revised: 12/23/2008