What causes oral mucositis?

The mouth lining renews itself quickly, so cancer treatment that affects dividing cells can also affect healthy mouth cells. Inflammation may produce redness, tenderness, swelling, ulcers, a dry mouth, altered taste, or pain when eating and speaking. The damaged lining can make it easier for germs to enter, especially when blood counts are low. Poorly fitting dental appliances, sharp teeth, tobacco, alcohol, and an existing mouth infection can add irritation. The severity and timing vary with the treatment plan and the area treated.

Tell the oncology team as soon as soreness or ulcers appear. Use a soft toothbrush, gentle mouth rinses recommended by your team, and cool or lukewarm fluids. Choose soft foods and avoid very spicy, acidic, rough, or extremely hot items if they sting. Keep dentures clean and remove them if they rub. Do not stop cancer treatment or use numbing medicines without advice; pain control, fluids, and mouth care can be adjusted.

Contact your treatment team promptly if mouth pain prevents drinking, swallowing tablets, or eating enough, or if you develop fever, worsening ulcers, bleeding, pus, or signs of dehydration such as very dark urine and dizziness. Breathing difficulty or swelling of the tongue or throat requires urgent care.

Could my treatment schedule or dental condition be contributing? Which rinse and pain medicine are suitable? How can I maintain fluids and nutrition? Should a dentist review my mouth before the next treatment?