Possible Problems

 

 

Dental Issues

 

 

Oral Health

For many years, I have used a mixture of 1/2 Peroxide (3%) and 1/2 Listerine Mint mouthwash for rinsing, swishing, and brushing my teeth using the Sonicare.  It helps with coffee stains and, in my opinion, helps to control the growth of yeast in the mouth, especially when used just before bedtime so the mouth is clean of food all night.

This year one of our members, Phil B from CA, brought me a bottle of a product I had not seen before.  He said it is like what you mix up.  It is called Peroxyl, an anticeptic oral cleaner, and is made by Colgate. It promotes healing, helps prevent infection by reducing bacteria, and gives you a clean mouth. The peroxide in it is 1.5% and it has a minty flavor.  They do have one with an alcohol-free formula for sensitive mouths.

I think it is a good product. The cost is a good bit higher than what it costs to make the mixture I have been using but it is convenient.

Pat Sanders

 

Dental and Radiation

 

The difficulties described by WebWhispers readers using dentures underscores the importance of taking good care of our natural teeth so that we do not get to requiring dentures.

Dental problem are common after exposure of the area to radiation therapy. The radiation affects include:

1. Reduced blood supply.
2. Reduced production of saliva.
3. Changes in the bacteria that colonize the mouth.

Because of these changes cavities in laryngectomee’s teeth, dryness, soreness, and infections in the mouth can be particularly problematic. These can be lessened somewhat by taking good care of your mouth and teeth-by cleaning, flushing, and using fluorinated tooth past. I do this after each meal. Using a special fluorinated preparation to gurgle or apply on the gum helps in preventing dental carries. Keeping well hydrated and using saliva substitute when needed is recommended.

It is particularly important for patients receiving radiation therapy to the
head and neck to visit their dentist for a thorough oral examination several
weeks prior to treatment and be examined at a regular annual or semi annual basis throughout life. Getting regular dental cleaning is important.

Stomach acid reflux is also very common after neck surgery especially those involving partial or complete laryngectomy. This can also cause dental erosions (especially of the lower jaw) and ultimate teeth loss. The ill effects of acid reflux can be reduced by:

1. Taking acid reducing medication
2. Eating small amounts of food and liquid each time
3. Not lying down soon after eating
4. When lying down-elevate upper part of body with pillow to 45 degrees.

Hopefull these measures will keep our teeth healthy.

Itzhak Brook MD MSc

Blog Site: http://dribrook.blogspot.com

 

 

 

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