Cancer and Dental Health: Managing Your Oral Care During Treatment
More than one-third of all cancer patients—and nearly 100% of those undergoing radiation for head and neck cancers—develop oral complications. These side effects are not merely uncomfortable; if left unmanaged, they can become severe enough to delay or interrupt your vital cancer treatments.
At CJ Henley, DMD, we serve as an essential part of your oncology team, providing specialized care for patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.
Why Your Dentist is a Vital Part of Your Cancer Care Team
Your mouth is a high-risk area for infection when your immune system is weakened by chemotherapy. Before treatment begins, a pre-treatment dental evaluation is critical to:
Identify and eliminate existing infections that could become life-threatening during immunosuppression.
Stabilize compromised teeth to prevent the need for emergency surgery during active treatment.
Establish a baseline for your oral health to manage changes as they occur.
If you are beginning treatment in Jacksonville, we coordinate directly with oncology teams—including our ongoing collaboration through the Baptist MD Anderson Head and Neck Tumor Board—to ensure your dental care is timed perfectly with your medical schedule.
Common Oral Side Effects of Cancer Treatment
Radiation and chemotherapy affect the rapidly dividing cells in the mouth, leading to several common conditions:
Oral Mucositis: Painful mouth sores and inflammation that can make eating and speaking difficult.
Xerostomia (Extreme Dry Mouth): Radiation can permanently damage salivary glands, leading to thick, sticky saliva and a significantly increased risk of rapid tooth decay.
Increased Infection Risk: Fungal (thrush) or bacterial infections are more common when the immune system is suppressed.
Jaw Pain and Stiffness: Particularly for those receiving radiation to the head and neck.
Specialized Care for Complex Medically Involved Patients
For patients managing Complex & Medically Involved Care, the stakes are higher. Our practice specializes in the specific protocols required for:
Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) Prevention: For patients who have received high-dose radiation to the jaw, certain dental procedures (like extractions) carry high risks. We utilize conservative management and specialized surgical protocols to maintain jaw bone health.
Post-Radiation Restorations: Saliva is the mouth's natural defense against decay. When saliva flow is compromised, we use specialized high-fluoride protocols and biocompatible materials designed for longevity in a high-risk environment.
Your Path Forward
Whether you are just received a diagnosis or are currently in the recovery phase, we provide an unhurried, two-hour comprehensive evaluation to understand your medical history and design a protective care plan.
Are you or a loved one beginning cancer treatment? Do not wait for symptoms to appear. Contact us today to schedule your oncology-focused dental consultation.
Reviewed and Updated February 2026