Oral care 10 plus years after extensive radiation

[Roger]

This is more of a tip than a question, but here goes. I had radiation treatment for head and neck cancer 12 years ago. Because, as I understand it, the radiation impacts the blood vessels that provides blood flow to my mandible, I was encouraged to pay extra attention to my oral care and was provided with a fluoride tray. All was good until about 3 years ago when I began to see a steady and significant increase in tooth decay. I have to admit, I was not compliant when it came to use of my fluoride tray and didn’t feel I would become compliant. Following several beatings by my oral hygienist, I asked if there was another option. She suggested I begin an oral fluoride paste which she could apply every six to seven weeks. I was already receiving this treatment during regular cleanings which took place every 3 months. This began 1.5 years ago. In a recent cleaning, my tooth decay (along with the beatings) seems to have stopped.

I hope this is helpful and if you have other ideas for good oral care, I’d like to hear them.

Thank you,
Roger

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