Treatments for Dry Mouth, Stomatitis and Mucositis
Saliva Stimulation
Loss of saliva (xerostomia) is one of the most common complaints among patients who have received radiation therapy to the head and neck regions. Radiation therapy in these regions of the body can be an effective form of treatment for malignancies. However, damage to the salivary glands may occur. Xerostomia contributes to radiation-induced periodontal infection, dental caries, osteoradionecrosis, and poor digestion of carbohydrates. Ask us about sialogogues (saliva stimulants) in customized dosage forms.
Aust Dent J. 2002 Sep;47(3):249-53
Mouthwash Solutions
When a person is receiving chemotherapy or radiation, mouth tenderness and infections can interfere with the ability to eat. Malnutrition may result, yet is often preventable. Our pharmacy can compound medications which may enable patients to enjoy eating again. We can compound numerous medications into a preparation such as an oral rinse that contains the needed concentrations of each drug.
A three-drug mouthwash (lidocaine, diphenhydramine and sodium bicarbonate in normal saline) can provide effective symptomatic relief in patients with chemotherapy-induced mucositis.