Mouth Care

It is important to keep your mouth clean and healthy during cancer treatment. Ensure that you follow a strict mouth care routine, particularly if you have a sore mouth.

You should aim to:

1. Clean your teeth gently using a soft bristled (or child’s) toothbrush and toothpaste.

Clean your teeth every morning and evening and after every meal.

Try to brush your teeth for 2 to 3 minutes, and make sure you brush the area where the teeth meet the gums.

Toothbrush bristles can be softened in hot water if they are too hard.

Replace your toothbrush regularly to prevent infections.

2. Rinse your mouth with water.

Rinse your mouth well after cleaning your teeth to remove any debris.

If you have been sick rinse your mouth out before cleaning your teeth as the acid in the vomit can damage your teeth.

Rinse your mouth with water as often as you need to keep it moist.

3. Keep your lips moist by regularly using a lip balm.

If You Have Dentures:

1. Remove dentures and clean them at every mouth care session.
Clean your dentures with a toothbrush and toothpaste (or denture paste) every morning and evening and after every meal.

2. Soak dentures overnight in a solution made with denture tablets.
Rinse your dentures well with water before using them.

If You Have a Sore Mouth:

If you have been prescribed a mouthwash (such as Corsodyl) or gel (such as Gelclair), you should use this as directed by your medical team or as advised on the packaging.

Start using the mouthwash or gel as soon as you first feel you have a sore or dry mouth. If you have a sore or dry mouth and have not been prescribed a mouthwash, please contact your medical team for further advice.

Avoid having tobacco and alcohol as this can irritate your mouth.

Take your dentures out when you don’t need to wear them (for example between meal times, when you are at home alone).

Tips to Help Freshen Your Mouth

Rinse out your mouth before and after eating.

Suck pieces of fruit, such as fresh or tinned pineapple chunks.

Suck ice cubes or ice lollies.

Suck on hard sweets such as mints or lemon drops if you have an unpleasant taste in your mouth.