Oral health

If you have been unwell, are having treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy, or if you are taking antibiotics, you may be experiencing some oral health problems. This can include a dry mouth, ulcers and oral thrush.

It’s easy to forget about oral health in these situations. Following the guidance below can help reduce discomfort and the risk of complications.

• Use a soft toothbrush with a pea-sized amount of non-foaming toothpaste.
• Regularly clean your teeth. Sometimes, this may mean cleaning them every two to four hours.
• Use an alcohol-free mouthwash, especially if you are not able to brush and can only rinse your mouth.
• Make sure dentures are thoroughly cleaned after each meal and taken out at night.
• Drink plenty of fluids and/or suck on ice cubes to keep your mouth hydrated.

Dry mouth and lips

If you often wake up with a sticky feeling and dry mouth you may be experiencing this problem.

It can affect your ability to swallow, chew properly and talk clearly. It’s caused by a lack of saliva in your mouth to keep it moist.

Following the guidance below will help to keep your mouth hydrated.

• Often have little sips of drinks at room temperature.
• Avoid sugary and carbonated drinks and keep tea and coffee to a minimum.
• Try having sugar-free sweets or chewing sugar free gum as they produce more saliva and help make your mouth feel more comfortable.
• Keeping your lips moist will help when talking. Use a water-based lip balm rather than a petroleum-based one, such as Vaseline©. Your nurse can also recommend an oral gel, which can be used on lips and inside the gum line.

Mouth ulcers

These can be very painful. Maintaining good oral hygiene will help, but you might need painkillers or treatment. If you have mouth ulcers make sure you mention it to your nurse or GP, especially if they are causing you pain and discomfort.

Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol as that can make your mouth feel worse.

Eating soft moist foods, rather than dry, salty and spicy food, will help.

Oral thrush

Oral thrush is a fungal infection in the mouth and throat. You may have an unpleasant taste in your mouth and your tongue may have white patches. It can also cause cracks in the corners of your mouth, a burning sensation, bad breath and difficulties speaking and eating. It is not contagious and is often treated with anti-fungal treatment.

Make sure dentures are removed before antifungal treatment and are soaked overnight.

Further advice

If you have any problems with your oral health or mouth make sure you mention it to your nurse or GP.

You can also call NHS 111, 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones.