There are a variety of treatments available in our modern society for the sufferers of cancer. The most common involves a combination of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy to eliminate the cancerous growth. This article will be focusing on the effects of chemotherapy on the buccal cavity (mouth), and the various procedures taken to reduce the impact of this particular treatment.

Chemotherapy involves the use of chemical substances, which are injected or taken orally to destroy malignant tissues and cells. These chemical substances are used to target and destroy rapidly dividing cells. However, the cells lining the mouth are also targeted, due to their fast dividing nature. As a result, the buccal cavity is highly susceptible to direct and indirect toxic effects of cancer chemotherapy.

The main symptoms experienced by chemotherapy patients are nausea, vomiting, anemia (deficiency in red blood cells) and several others involving the mouth listed below:

- Painful mouth and gums.
- Dry mouth.
- Burning, peeling, or swelling tongue.
- Infection.
- Change in taste.

These symptoms are a necessary step in the chemotherapy treatment, but they can be reduced with the aid of mouth rinses and pain relievers.

Additionally, the patient may undergo temporary periods when their resistance to infection is reduced and their ability of blood to clot is decreased. During these times, it may be advisable to stop brushing and flossing. Special mouth rinses to reduce plaque may be prescribed instead.

It is highly recommended to visit the local dentist or dental therapist to gain valuable advise on maintaining dental hygiene prior and during the process of chemotherapy since there is a considerable increase in the risk of tooth decay in this period.

Cites Referenced
- Wikipedia
- www.nidcr.nih.gov
- National Institutes of Health (Pamphlet)

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