During and after
radiation therapy to the head and neck area, patients often experience changes in oral health including: Reduction in the amount of saliva (hyposalivation). A sensation of oral dryness (xerostomia or dry mouth). Taste changes. Tissue trauma (i.e. ulcerations). Oral discomfort. Increased risk of infection.Common side
effects of head and neck radiation therapy are dermatitis, mucosal changes, candidiasis, loss of taste, salivary gland dysfunction, radiation caries, soft-tissue necrosis, scar tissue formation, and osteoradionecrosis. These
side effects have important implications for care of patients in the
dental office.
Some common side effects of radiation therapy used for oral cancer are:
- fatigue
- skin problems
- sore mouth, dry mouth and difficulty swallowing
- infection
More items
Possible Side Effects of Radiation on Teeth
- Red, irritated gums
- Bleeding gums
- Gum recession (pulling away)
- Bad breath
- Oozing from the gums
Patients are at an increased risk for xerostomia (dry mouth), mucositis (inflammation of the soft tissues of the mouth),
dental caries (decay), loss of taste, fibrosis of the muscle, vascular, and lymphatic tissues, malaise, and infection.
