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Your Mansfield dentists, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris, build personal relationships with their patients. They care about their patients’ overall health in addition to their dental health. They understand that patients coming into their office may be battling cancer, and they want to provide top-notch, compassionate care for them before and during their cancer treatment. They would like to share some information from the American Dental Association (ADA) regarding some of the effects of cancer treatment on oral health.

Side Effects of Cancer Treatments

According to the ADA, more than one-third of cancer patients develop negative side effects in the mouth. They can develop mouth sores, infection, tender gums, jaw discomfort, or dry mouth. This is due to the fact that chemotherapy and various cancer treatments depress the immune system. As a result, you may become more prone to infection during treatments for cancer.

Visit Your Mansfield Dentists Prior To Treatment

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris strongly recommend coming in for a check up before beginning cancer treatment so that they can treat any problems you might have such as gum disease or cavities. This will make you less vulnerable to complications during your cancer treatment. Sometimes, radiation therapy that focuses on the head and neck can disturb the salivary gland, causing the salivary glands to produce tacky saliva and a dry mouth. Possessing a healthy saliva flow helps to prevent the growth of cavities and infection, so weakened salivary glands increase your risk of tooth decay and infection. It is important to work hand-in-hand with your dentists throughout your cancer treatment in order to monitor for cavities and gum disease. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris follow the American Dental Association’s guidelines that patients should attend dental cleanings every six months. At each cleaning, Dr. Jones or Dr. Harris will personally inspect your mouth as well as occasionally order x-rays to check for problems that are not visible to the naked eye. Their friendly hygienists will clean and polish the teeth as well as treat for gum disease if applicable. Then, your dentists will conclude the appointment with a discussion of their findings and suggestions for treatment.

About Your Mansfield Dentists

Mansfield Dental Associates provide a wide array of services such as teeth whitening, sealants, dental implants, and mini implants. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris welcome and treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.