When it comes to good causes, we all unite in the same heart. And especially for those brave people who cling to their lives and fight tirelessly to overcome Breast Cancer. According to the World Health Organization, it is estimated that 266,120 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer this year in the United States and 63,960 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in situ. Also, it is estimated that in the United States, approximately 2,550 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer. In Costa Rica, 43 out of 100,000 women suffer from breast cancer. Our LS Dental Clinic family sympathizes with these brave fighters and we have set to work, wanting to contribute our bit in this fight.

Many people do not know yet, but breast cancer has an impact on oral health. The care of the teeth and the mouth during the treatment against cancer is key to improve the quality of life of the patient and then avoid rigorous complications.

The National Cancer Institute, in the United States, recommends a series of good oral practices prior to cancer treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy on a larger scale, since these treatments can significantly affect the patient’s teeth, gums and teeth. This is to avoid affecting the patient’s diet, and to improve the quality of life during and after cancer treatment.

Among side effects in the oral health of cancer treatments are cavities, infections, gum pain or gingivitis, sores in the mouth, peeling of the tongue and taste alteration. For this reason, it is very important to discover in a timely manner any evidence that might suggest a potential oral complication.

How to prevent and treat side effects to the oral health of cancer treatments?

Undoubtedly it is a matter of prevention and follow-up with your dentist. Some recommendations are:

1. A complete examination of the mouth and teeth before starting radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
2. A recurring professional dental cleaning (your dentist will recommend the frequency).
3. Caries treatment and restoration of the necessary parts.
4. Treatment of periodontal disease.
5. Periodic controls during cancer treatment (cancer).
6. Monitoring of possible warning signs of complications: swelling and / or bleeding gums, numbness of the jaw, gum pain.

As for the oral hygiene of the patient with cancer would be the same instructions as the rest of the population, however, in these should be comprehensive and rigorous.

Some extra recommendations that you can consider are:

• Use a brush with soft nylon filaments.
• Make sure to clean your gums well.
• If your gums are very sensitive and fragile, rinse the toothbrush in hot water every 15 to 30 seconds in the brushing to soften it and avoid cuts or damage to the gums.
• Rinse with water or saline 3 or 4 strokes during brushing to remove plaque that may come loose during brushing.
• Choose a toothpaste with neutral flavor.
• Let your toothbrush dry in the air.
• Change your toothbrush every 3 months or less.
• Gently use dental floss.
• Whenever dentures are used, clean them with a special brush and rinse thoroughly after each meal.
• If your gums hurt or bleed during brushing or flossing, consult the dentist.
• Keep your mouth and lips hydrated and moist.
• Ask your dentist if you have questions about how to care for your oral hygiene correctly.

The fundamental thing is that the patient can recover from the disease while maintaining the best quality of life possible. At LS Dental Clinic your treatment and recovery are our highest priority. Our team of doctors and specialists are at your entire disposal.

Looking to get some dental work done? 

At LS Dental Clinic Costa Rica, we will provide you the best dental treatment for your needs. Out team of dentists will strive to give you a beautiful natural looking smile. We specialize in dental implants, bone regeneration, porcelain veneers, bridges, crowns, All on Four denture, tooth replacements, fillings and teeth whitening. All while enjoying the best destination in Costa Rica tourism: Playas del Coco (Coco Beach).

Contact us today to schedule your dental treatment!

USA (214) 778-5891 | (214) 778-5163
Whatsapp +506-8846-5744
Costa Rica +506-2670-2400
Coco Beach, Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

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