Cancer

Care

We recognize the unique dental challenges faced by individuals undergoing cancer treatment. Serving the Kirkland, WA community, our dedicated team provides specialized Cancer Care services tailored to support your oral health during and after cancer therapy. Whether you are preparing for cancer treatment or seeking ongoing dental care, we are here to ensure your smile remains healthy and resilient.

Cancer care in dentistry involves comprehensive oral health services designed to address the specific needs of cancer patients. Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery can have significant impacts on oral health, leading to issues like dry mouth, oral infections, mucositis, and tooth decay. Our goal is to provide preventive care, manage treatment-related side effects, and maintain optimal oral health to enhance your overall well-being during your cancer treatment.

Services We Offer for Cancer Patients

Our Cancer Care services are thoughtfully designed to address the various oral health challenges associated with cancer treatment:

Preventive Dental Care

• Comprehensive Examinations: Thorough oral assessments to identify and address potential issues before cancer treatment begins.
• Professional Cleanings: Regular cleanings to maintain oral hygiene and prevent infections.
• Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening tooth enamel to protect against decay.

Managing Treatment-Related Side Effects

• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) Management: Customized treatments and recommendations to alleviate dry mouth caused by medications and radiation.
• Oral Mucositis Care: Specialized care to soothe and heal painful sores and inflammation in the mouth.
• Infection Control: Prompt treatment of oral infections to prevent complications during cancer therapy.

Pre-Treatment Dental Procedures

• Tooth Extractions: Removing problematic teeth before radiation therapy to reduce the risk of osteoradionecrosis (bone damage caused by radiation).
• Restorative Treatments: Addressing cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues to ensure a healthy foundation for cancer treatment.

Post-Treatment Rehabilitation

• Prosthetic Services: Providing dentures, bridges, or implants to restore function and aesthetics after cancer treatment.
• Reconstruction: Rebuilding damaged oral structures to improve speech, chewing, and overall quality of life.

Post-Op Instructions for Cancer Care

Proper post-operative care is essential for a smooth recovery and to maintain oral health during cancer treatment. Here are our recommended post-op instructions:

Oral Hygiene Practices

• Gentle Brushing: Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush to keep your mouth clean without causing irritation.
• Flossing Carefully: Floss daily to remove plaque and prevent gum disease, being mindful around sensitive areas.
• Rinsing: Use prescribed antimicrobial rinses to reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.

Managing Side Effects

• Dry Mouth Relief: Stay hydrated, use saliva substitutes, and avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
• Soothing Sores: Apply recommended gels or rinses to soothe oral mucositis and reduce pain and inflammation.
• Pain Control: Take prescribed pain medications as directed to manage discomfort effectively.

Dietary Recommendations

• Soft Foods: Opt for soft, easy-to-chew foods such as yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soups to avoid irritation and promote healing.
• Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods that can exacerbate oral discomfort and interfere with healing.
• Balanced Nutrition: Maintain a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall health and recovery.

Follow-Up Appointments

• Regular Monitoring: Attend all scheduled follow-up visits to monitor your oral health and adjust your care plan as needed.
• Report Concerns: Inform our team immediately if you experience unusual pain, swelling, or signs of infection to receive prompt care.

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