One of the most important things that you can do is go to a Dental Oncologist for a thorough examination to look for any teeth or areas of your mouth that could become problematic during your treatment like an infection brewing on an X-ray that don’t feel but could flare up. Also, we want to prevent dental decay, especially if you’re receiving any radiation approaching close to the head or the neck. The dryness can in the mouth can rapid tooth decay. The way we prevent that is by making custom trays that fit over your teeth so you can apply a prescription strength fluoride to your teeth every day to help keep them strong.
After treatment is done, follow up is extremely important. Most people are used to going to the dentist twice a year to get a quick cleaning or checkup. As a cancer patient, you’re in a completely different category of dental patient and may require cleanings and checkups four times a year because we want to look for problems before they become devastating problems. After cancer treatment, dental problems can escalate quickly.
Dr. Ronald Koslowski, DDS FACP is a Board Certified Prosthodontist and Dental Oncologist who practices in Encino, California. Dr. Koslowski is the author of “Take Back the Smile That Cancer Stole: The Cancer Patients Guide to Better Dental Health”, which is free to cancer patients and survivors who call our office to request a copy at 818-986-9036.
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