Joining Forces

It is no surprise that the mouth is connected to the rest of the body. Oral health is not only affected by systemic health but oral health can also greatly influence systemic health. Countless studies have proven a relationship between dental diseases and cardiovascular disease, respiratory diseases, diabetes, and fetal development. Many studies are also demonstrating a link between chronic inflammation (such as periodontal disease) and it's relation to the development of various cancers.

Over 20 years of experience in the dental field has provided me many first-hand experiences with ways that cancer treatments can negatively affect oral health.

Oral side effects and untreated dental diseases can cause added pain, financial and psychological distress, and a diminished quality-of-life for those fighting cancer. They may have a continued negative impact long after cancer treatments have been completed. The oral changes can even lead to complications or delays of treatments, which can compromise the patient's ability to successfully win their battle against cancer.

Some of the oral side effects and the resulting damage could be minimized or avoided with coordination of care between the medical and dental teams by focusing on prevention and education. Side Effect Support will provide a link between the medical and dental communities to help achieve this goal. Sign up for email alerts to follow this blog. Get updates on information and products to improve the quality-of-life of our patients during and after cancer treatments.