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Dental Care Before Radiotherapy in Stockholm – Expert Support at Gloss & Floss

Q: Which dental treatments are recommended before head and neck radiation?

A complete dental examination should be performed to treat infections and remove teeth with a poor prognosis in the planned radiation field. Preventive care, including professional cleaning and fluoride therapy, is also recommended.

Q: How does radiotherapy affect teeth and gums in the long term?

Radiotherapy can reduce saliva, raise cavity risk, and increase susceptibility to gum disease. Lifelong dental follow-up and preventive care are important to protect oral health after treatment.

Q: What can help relieve dry mouth after radiotherapy?

Helpful strategies include frequent water intake, saliva substitutes, sugar-free chewing gum, xylitol products, and regular care with a dental hygienist to protect teeth and gums.

Q: Can dental implants be placed after radiotherapy in the jaw?

Yes, in selected cases. The timing, radiation dose, and bone condition must be carefully assessed. Some patients may require bone regeneration or specialist evaluation before implant placement.

Q: How soon before radiotherapy should tooth extractions be done?

To minimize complications, extractions are ideally performed at least 10–14 days before radiotherapy begins, allowing adequate healing time.

At Gloss & Floss Dental Care® in Södermalm, we provide specialized dental care before radiotherapy in Stockholm. Before starting head and neck radiotherapy, high-dose chemotherapy, or whole-body radiotherapy, patients need careful dental evaluation and treatment. A healthy mouth reduces the risk of complications and helps ensure safer cancer therapy.

Why Dental Care Is Essential Before Radiotherapy

Before cancer treatment begins, our team performs a thorough dental consultation to identify infections or damaged teeth. Teeth with severe periodontal disease or poor prognosis in the radiation field are often removed. Extractions are carried out atraumatically and at least 10–14 days before radiotherapy starts, to allow safe healing and lower the risk of osteoradionecrosis.

Oral Complications from Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy

Radiotherapy often damages salivary glands and the jawbone, reducing saliva flow and lowering oral pH. This creates a higher risk of cavities, gum disease, and oral infections. Patients may also develop dry mouth, trismus (difficulty opening the mouth), or delayed healing. Early intervention and preventive oral care measures are key to protecting long-term dental health.

How Gloss & Floss Supports Cancer Patients

Our specialists in oral surgery and orofacial medicine use protocols tailored for patients preparing for or recovering from radiotherapy and chemotherapy. We also provide advanced oral surgery treatments when needed, always with patient safety in focus. After cancer treatment, we continue follow-up care to manage side effects, support healing, and guide rehabilitation, including the possibility of dental implants where suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is dental care important before starting radiotherapy or chemotherapy?

Untreated dental infections can worsen during cancer therapy. Removing risk factors in advance reduces complications like osteoradionecrosis and painful infections.

Which dental treatments are recommended before head and neck radiation?

Patients should receive a complete dental check-up, treat infections, and extract the teeth with a poor prognosis in the radiation field. Preventive treatments such as fluoride and professional cleaning are also recommended.

How does radiotherapy affect teeth and gums in the long term?

Radiotherapy can cause permanent dry mouth, gum disease, and increased risk of cavities. Long-term follow-up with a dentist is crucial to protect oral health.

What can help relieve dry mouth after radiotherapy?

Frequent hydration, saliva substitutes, sugar-free chewing gum, and professional care from a dental hygienist help relieve dry mouth and protect the teeth.

Can dental implants be placed after radiotherapy in the jaw?

Yes, but timing and bone condition must be carefully assessed. Some patients may need bone regeneration or specialist evaluation before implants can be placed safely.