Chemotherapy may lead to tooth decay or infections by weakening the immune system and slowing down the regeneration of oral cells. Side effects are usually short term, and practicing oral hygiene may help.
Children may have long-term dental complications if doctors treat them with chemotherapy at a young age.
This article examines how chemotherapy affects the teeth and the oral complications that may arise. It also provides tips for managing dental health during cancer treatment, and answers some frequently asked questions.
Chemotherapy slows or stops cancer cells from growing. However, the treatment
Chemotherapy can also upset the balance of bacteria in the mouth and weaken the immune system, leading to infections or tooth decay.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, cancer therapies, including chemotherapy, may cause the following dental problems:
- discolored teeth or white patches on the teeth
- missing teeth or roots
- increased cavities
- thin or shortened tooth roots
- pits or grooves in the teeth
- teeth that stain more easily
Learn more about chemotherapy side effects.
Chemotherapy
However, chemotherapy may affect tooth development in children. A 2018 systematic review with meta-analysis combined the results of several studies that followed people diagnosed with cancer as children for up to 22.9 years to examine how chemotherapy affected tooth health over time.
The researchers found that 1 in 7 children who had chemotherapy may have at least one missing tooth that would otherwise have developed. They also suggested that other side effects included discoloration and increased cavities.
A 2023 review found that 53% of people who had cancer therapy in early childhood had crown-root malformations and missing teeth.
Learn more about the long-term side effects of chemotherapy.
People
If they wear dentures and have symptoms of candidiasis, such as taste changes and burning pain, a doctor or dentist may advise them to soak the devices in an antifungal rinse.
The
If mint flavoring in toothpaste irritates the mouth, someone can brush their teeth with a mixture of a quarter teaspoon of salt added to a cup of water.
Rinsing every 2 hours with a quarter teaspoon each of baking soda and salt in a quart of water may decrease the soreness in the mouth.
Starting a dental routine before someone’s cancer treatment begins is important. This includes having a dental checkup at least 4 weeks before treatment to determine whether there are any issues the dentist needs to address.
Giving up tobacco or vaping will also help where applicable.
If someone is concerned about their oral or dental health during or after chemotherapy, they can speak with their healthcare professional or dentist for advice.
It is important to have regular follow-ups after completing chemotherapy. Depending on the individual circumstances, a dentist
Other oral side effects of chemotherapy
- dry mouth and less saliva
- taste changes
- sore teeth or gums
- sore or numb lips or mouth
- oral mucositis, which is inflammation of the membranes in the mouth
- bleeding
- infection
- stiffness in the mouth and jaw
- problems swallowing
- loss of bone and tissue
A person must speak with a medical professional if they experience oral side effects during cancer treatment.
Treating problems as soon as they appear may help to make complications less severe.
Why do my teeth hurt after chemo?
Mouth pain is a
Does chemo discolor teeth?
Chemotherapy can discolor teeth. It may cause white or discolored patches.
A weakened immune system and slower oral tissue repair mean that people having chemotherapy are more at risk of tooth decay and infections.
Children who have chemotherapy have an increased risk of missing teeth.
To prevent dental and oral complications from chemotherapy, people should see their dentist at least 4 weeks before treatment starts and have regular follow-ups.
People must speak to their oncologist or dentist if they have any dental or oral symptoms. Treating dental problems as soon as they arise may help with managing side effects.
