Does breast cancer treatment cause mouth sores?

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness about breast cancer and its various effects, including lesser-known side effects such as mouth sores, also known as oral mucositis. These sores can be painful, making it difficult to eat, speak, and maintain proper oral hygiene.

While treatment for breast cancer focuses on combating the disease, it's important to understand how these therapies can impact overall health, including oral health. Mouth sores are a common and painful side effect of chemotherapy and radiation. Knowing the causes, symptoms, and management strategies can help breast cancer patients navigate these challenges more comfortably.

Mouth sores are a common side effect of certain breast cancer treatments, particularly chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These treatments target rapidly dividing cancer cells but can also affect the rapidly dividing cells in the lining of the mouth and the gut. The result is inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes, a condition known as oral mucositis.

1. Chemotherapy

   Chemotherapy is designed to attack fast-growing cancer cells, but it also affects healthy cells that line the mouth. This can lead to mouth sores that appear within 7 to 14 days after starting treatment. Research shows that a high percentage of chemotherapy patients develop some form of oral mucositis.

2. Radiation Therapy

   Patients undergoing radiation therapy, especially when targeted at the head and neck area, are also at risk of developing mouth sores. Radiation damages both cancerous and healthy cells in the treatment area, leading to inflammation and sores in the mouth. The risk increases with the total dose and duration of radiation therapy.

3. Weakened Immune System

   Breast cancer treatments can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections. As a result, patients are more susceptible to infections in the mouth, including fungal, viral, and bacterial infections, which can worsen the severity of mouth sores.

Mouth sores from cancer treatments can range from mild irritation to severe ulcers. Severe cases of oral mucositis can significantly impact a patient’s ability to eat and drink, potentially leading to malnutrition or dehydration. Common symptoms include:

• Red, swollen patches in the mouth
• Painful ulcers or sores
• Bleeding in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or talking
• Sensitivity to certain foods (especially hot or spicy foods)

While mouth sores are a common side effect of breast cancer treatment, there are steps patients can take to manage the condition and reduce discomfort:

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene.

   Keeping the mouth clean is essential to prevent infections and promote healing. Brush teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use alcohol-free, non-irritating mouth rinses. Avoid toothpaste with strong flavors, as these can further irritate the mouth.

2. Drink Plenty of Water.

   Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can help keep the mouth moist and reduce irritation. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and acidic beverages can also prevent further irritation.

3. Use a Saltwater Rinse.

   Rinsing the mouth with a saltwater solution several times a day can help reduce inflammation and keep sores clean.

4. Ask Your Dentist for Medicated Mouthwash Recommendations.

   In severe cases, your dentist may recommend medicated mouth rinses or topical treatments to help numb the pain and promote healing. Some may contain local anesthetics or anti-inflammatory agents.

5. Avoid Irritating Foods.

   It’s important to avoid foods that may irritate mouth sores, such as spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods. Instead, opt for soft food options that are easier to chew and swallow.

6. Consult with Your Dentist Before Treatment.

   If possible, visit a dentist before starting chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Addressing any existing dental issues and getting personalized advice on oral care can help reduce the risk of severe mouth sores.

Mouth sores during breast cancer treatment are a common and often painful side effect, but they can be managed with proper care and precautions. If you need tailored advice and treatments to help manage oral health challenges during your treatment, please give our team at SameDay Dental Clinic a call at 04 315 8300.