Chemotherapy

alertleaf
alertleaf Member Posts: 1
in Head and Neck Cancer #1

My friend is undergoing chemotherapy for the past 6 months as he is suffering from cancer. Repeated chemotherapy has weakened his immune system.  It has damaged his salivary glands and has caused  a dry mouth. Now, he is suffering from tooth decay and infection. We consulted a dentist at Toronto ( http://www.emergency-dental-365.com/procedures/emergency-root-canal/ ). He suggested for a root canal treatment. Is it safe for someone undergoing chemotherapy to undergo root canal treatment?

Comments

  • armana
    armana Member Posts: 97 Member
    #2
    How to take care of your teeth

    I am sorry that your friend is going through cancer treatment. PLease read the following Link regarding oral care for head and neck cancer patients.

    http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/oralhealth/Topics/CancerTreatment/OralComplicationsCancerOral.htm

    Dry mouth will improve over time but will never go away.

    Arman

  • Drivingdaisy
    Drivingdaisy Member Posts: 263
    #3
    Chemo

    Has he had a conversation with his Chemo Drs regarding the situation.  I would think opening up yourself to infection from the root canal would cause possible other problems at this point. I would be talking with all my Doctors regarding this.  Also, is his Dentist knowledged in Head & Neck Cancers?  Makes a big difference.

  • Hondo
    Hondo Member Posts: 6,636 Member
    #4
    Chemo & Teeth

     

    I wish I could say something better but can’t; If you already had radiation or Chemo once you might also need to do 30 or 40 dives in a HBO (Hyperbaric oxygen therapy) before doing any work on your teeth. I know it sucks but that is part of how the game is played. Hope this helps

     

    Tim

     

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