Treating cancer involves some big life changes, and the last thing you want to be thinking about is your dental health. That's why pre-treatment dental care matters, and our dentists can help.
How Dental Health Impacts Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy and other immunosuppressive therapies can increase the risk of bacteria from untreated gum disease or cavities entering the bloodstream and contributing to inflammation. That's why it's important to partner with your dentist before starting chemotherapy or cancer surgery. When you can stay on top of your oral health, it helps to protect your entire body.
You may also need healing time before cancer treatment begins, so it's important to partner with your dentist as soon as you can when you know you're going to undergo chemotherapy.
Steps for Managing Dental Care Before Cancer Treatment
Here are some steps you can take to ensure you're ready for chemotherapy:
- Schedule a comprehensive exam with your dentist — Your dentist can check your gum health and take x-rays to evaluate your treatment needs.
- Share your medical treatment plan — Giving your dentist an idea of the cancer treatment your oncologist has planned can help them map out your dental treatment needs and stay within the time frames of your medical treatment plan.
- Prioritize high-risk teeth — Focus on treating chronic gum disease, severe tooth decay, or loose teeth to help you avoid dental emergencies during your chemotherapy or other cancer treatment.
Talk with Your Team at Uptown Dentistry and Prosthodontics
Managing major health concerns takes time and energy. Your team at Uptown Dentistry and Prosthodontics would be honored to be part of your healthcare journey as you get back on the path to wellness. We're happy to coordinate treatment plans with your physician to ensure you're ready for chemotherapy and achieve the best results.