Radiation treatment involves the use of X-rays to kill cancer cells, but this often damages healthy cells in the process and causes many side effects. The salivary glands are often affected when radiation occurs in the head and neck. Damage to salivary glands can result in dry mouth, leading to an increased incidence of dental caries, infection, and difficulty eating and speaking. According to the American Academy of Oral Medicine, dry mouth after radiation is often irreversible, but treatments can decrease discomfort and stimulate salivary production.
Saliva Stimulants
Sometimes the salivary glands are completely destroyed during radiation. However, for patients who retain some salivary gland function, certain products -- such as sugar-free candy or gum -- can stimulate the glands to produce saliva. The Oral Cancer Foundation also recommends eating carrots or celery for saliva stimulation. According to DryMouth.info, sucking a cherry or olive pit can help as well.
Over-the-Counter Saliva Substitutes
Saliva substitutes do not aid in saliva production, but rather provide moisture for the oral cavity by mimicking the action of saliva. Saliva substitutes are formulated as rinses, sprays, gels or lozenges. The Oral Cancer Foundation also advises that patients drink water frequently and suck ice chips throughout the day to keep the mouth moist. It is also important to drink plenty of water while eating to facilitate chewing and swallowing.
Prescription Medications
Doctors sometimes prescribe medications to stimulate the salivary glands. Examples include pilocarpine and cevimeline which act on the nervous system to stimulate the salivary glands to secrete saliva. They also stimulate the eyes to produce more tears. The Oral Cancer Foundation indicates that, with doses of 5 to 30 mg per day, pilocarpine significantly decreased xerostomia -- the medical term for dry mouth -- following radiation therapy.
References
- Oral Cancer Foundation: Xerostomia Information for Dentists
- DryMouth.info: Dry Mouth
- "Medically Complex Dental Patients"; Rhodus Miller; 2008
