When you receive a cancer diagnosis, making a dental appointment is probably the last thing on your mind. Yet, seeing your dentist before treatment, when possible, is highly recommended and can play an important role in your journey back to health.
When we work with cancer patients, our main goals are to:
Many oral health issues involve bacteria and infection which have the potential to get into your blood stream when you swallow. During cancer treatment your immune system will likely be compromised, making you more susceptible to infections that can become dangerous for you.
Dental treatment is usually not allowed during chemotherapy and other cancer treatments due to the risk of infection. Making sure your teeth are healthy and strong can prevent pain, emergencies, and other dental challenges that might cause you to interrupt your cancer treatment or suffer needlessly as you go through it.
Your dental hygienist is expert at keeping the millions of bacteria and organisms in your mouth under control. A professional cleaning will also help prevent or treat periodontal gum disease, a common oral infection that may impact your overall health.
If you or someone you love has recently been diagnosed with cancer, be sure to ask your doctor about seeing your dentist if she has not already recommended it.
And, if you are in our area, we would love to support you in having optimum oral health during your cancer journey. Call our Dentist in Orange, CA at (714) 633-2562.
We look forward to meeting you. Call (714) 633-2562 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.