Oral care for radiation therapy in head and neck area
When is it indicated?
When is it indicated?Possible effects of radiotherapy on the mouth
Radiation therapy is aimed at killing tumour cells but may sometimes cause undesirable effects in the surrounding area:
- dry mouth
- inflammation of the mucosa in the mouth
- restricted mouth opening
- taste changes
- bad breath
- sensitivity to hot, cold or spicy food
Read more below about preventative treatment in case of radiation therapy in head and neck area
You still have your own teeth
You still have your own teethBefore radiation therapy
- Make an appointment for a dental check-up. Infections will be treated and teeth with a limited
lifespan will be removed. - An impression of your teeth will be made for the purpose of creating fluoride trays.
During radiation therapy
- Ensure good oral hygiene (brushing teeth and interdental cleaning).
- Do not smoke.
- Install an air humidifier in your bedroom and living room.
- Use the fluoride trays daily.
NOTE: using the fluoride trays does NOT replace brushing your teeth!
Teeth must be cleaned two to three times a day. Interdental brushes must be used to clean between the teeth.
Use of fluoride trays
- When? After brushing your teeth, before going to bed.
- How? Apply a thin layer of fluoride gel to the tray (not in excessive amounts).
- For how long? Keep the fluoride tray in for five minutes every day. You may not rinse, eat or drink for 30 minutes afterward.
- Take care of the fluoride trays: rinse and dry them daily.
After radiation therapy
- Have dental check-ups every four months.
- Use the fluoride trays daily up to six months after undergoing radiation therapy, then use them twice a
week for the rest of your life.
You have dentures
You have dentures- Clean the dentures at least once a day.
- Remove the dentures from your mouth a few hours every day to allow for rest.
- Never wear the dentures at night.
- If you have a small injury in the mouth or if you feel pain: have the dentures checked by a dentist.
You can download all this information in the form of the leaflet below:
oral care and radiation therapy in head and neck area
DownloadCentres and specialist areas
Centres and specialist areas
Ghent - Stomatology and maxillofacial surgery
Oral, maxillofacial and facial surgery, surgery
Deinze - Stomatology
Oral, Mandibular and Facial Surgery
Latest publication date: 10/01/2024
