Dental problems after chemo

AngelBaby

I finished my treatment three months ago. Lately, I've noticed that my teeth are extremely sensitive. Is this yet another side effect of chemo? I know that it targets rapidly dividing cells which is why I had to take the Neulasta shots (ouch) but should it effect my teeth? Just curious. I have a dental appt next Wednesday so I want to be informed.

rizzo15

Last Saturday, I had my regular teeth cleaning appointment. Have been done with chemo for 8 months. The dental hygenist came across 3 "sensitive" spots below the gum line. Have never had this problem before. Have had cleaning appointments every 6 months from childhood. She claimed these new sensitive spots were related to chemo, but didn't have any suggestions other than using Sensidine (sp?) toothpaste and trying to schedule cleaning appointments 3 times a year instead of 2 times a year for a while so that the gum stays as close as possible against the nerves and plaque doesn't get a foothold. Will be interested to hear if others run into this symptom.

krisrey

rizzo15 said:

Last Saturday, I had my regular teeth cleaning appointment. Have been done with chemo for 8 months. The dental hygenist came across 3 "sensitive" spots below the gum line. Have never had this problem before. Have had cleaning appointments every 6 months from childhood. She claimed these new sensitive spots were related to chemo, but didn't have any suggestions other than using Sensidine (sp?) toothpaste and trying to schedule cleaning appointments 3 times a year instead of 2 times a year for a while so that the gum stays as close as possible against the nerves and plaque doesn't get a foothold. Will be interested to hear if others run into this symptom.

AngelBaby and Rizzo,
I seem to have some sensitive spots on my gums also. But Rizzo..I would check with your dentist again because I remember that my dentist put some kind of white type of filling stuff over the sensitive area, kind of like blocking it..I also have gone for regular 6 months check-ups my whole life. My next appt is in April so I will see what happens.
Kris

Dobra

krisrey said:

AngelBaby and Rizzo,
I seem to have some sensitive spots on my gums also. But Rizzo..I would check with your dentist again because I remember that my dentist put some kind of white type of filling stuff over the sensitive area, kind of like blocking it..I also have gone for regular 6 months check-ups my whole life. My next appt is in April so I will see what happens.
Kris

I am 4 yrs out from my chemo and also had some dental problems. I ended up losing much of the bone that held my front teeth and had to have them pulled and a bridge put in. I had some bone lost before the cancer, but it was much worse after the chemo. Also the sensitive spots.
Just be aware that this is not unusal and make sure that the dentist understands your medical history.

ajetlgd1

I am 3 yrs out from the chemo and experienced similiar problems. I did have one molar to loosen, as my dentist explained to be due to the cells/blood/iron deficiency. It eventually corrected itself. Just make sure that you have your check ups regulary.