Cancer Therapy and Mouth Sores Why it happens and what you can do to reduce the risk Why does this happen? Yourrnouth may becora sore ornitated during your treatment because some anti-cancer drugs damage the Cells thatline your mouth How to reduce your risk? Keep good oral hygiene and visit your dentist before starting your treatment. Keep your mouth clean by: oO- Brush teeth regularly Use a soft toothbrush to clean your mouth after Use bland mouth washes and rinses containing salt/saline or bicarb soda You canalso try sucking on ce cubes during chemotherapy treatment to minimise your risk of developing mouth sores, but itis best to talk to your doctor about this as itis ‘only recommended in certain groups of people. How you can relieve your symptoms Keep mouth moist using water or saliva substitutes Use lip balm to help avoid lips from cracking and drying > ceondentuesaninaants Aid pyc tenturerouh foods > wsismoutnvasestht contin Things to discuss with your health care provider 'MASCC/ISOO releases evidence-based gudelnest for the prevention and management of ‘mouth sores. ‘These guidelines recommend the use of photobiomodulation (also called low level laser therapy), palifermin and mouthwashes containing ‘morphine or Benzydamine, but only in certain groups of people. Be sure to talk to your health care provider about what is best for you. See ee Poe cua] eee eae eee ae If they are frustrating or affecting your ability to goabout your day, it’s time to talk with your ee tig De eae ey ace diary of your symptoms and how they impact you. This can help when talking to your doctor about them and make sure you receive the best ossiblecare. MASCC