Oral cancer (mouth cancer) is the sixth most common cancer in the UK and according to Mouth Cancer Foundation, over 8,500 people in the UK were diagnosed last year.

Awareness of the major signs and symptoms are low so more awareness is needed to detect early. With Mouth Cancer Awareness month approaching (November), we always encourage everyone to check their mouths for any signs or symptoms. This video provides a guide to what you should be doing to check and what you need to look out for. View here.

The link between mouth cancer and dry mouth

Dry mouth is a common and often persistent side effect of mouth cancer. While it can be uncomfortable, adopting coping strategies can help with the management of symptoms and ultimately improve daily lives.

People with mouth cancer frequently experience dry mouth often due to the effects of cancer treatments on the salivary glands. The treatment will vary depending on different factors, but one of the most common and effective treatments for mouth cancer is radiation therapy. This uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells, but is not selective and can often damage nearby healthy tissues, including the salivary glands. These glands may be exposed to significant doses causing them to become inflamed or permanently damaged, losing their ability to produce normal amounts of saliva, and leading to persistent dry mouth.

Chemotherapy can contribute to dry mouth but the effects are often temporary. Chemotherapy drugs can cause inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, leading to changes in the quantity and consistency of saliva.

As well as cancer treatments, surgery can also disrupt the salivary glands and nerves. Surgery may be necessary to remove the tumour or affected tissue in the mouth. During surgical procedures, salivary glands may be removed or damaged, particularly if the tumour is located close to these glands. Even if the glands themselves are not removed, surgery can still affect the nerves that control the glands, reducing saliva production.

The long-term effects of dry mouth

Dry mouth, while uncomfortable on its own, can also lead to more serious issues, particularly if it becomes a long-term or permanent condition.

• Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease: Without enough saliva to wash away food particles and neutralise acids, bacteria can thrive in the mouth. This can lead to tooth decay, and gum infections, both of which can be painful and affect overall health.
  
  
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing and speaking: Saliva helps to moisten food for easier swallowing, and it also aids in speech by keeping the mouth and tongue lubricated. Without it, patients may struggle with eating, potentially leading to malnutrition or unintended weight loss. Speech may also become slurred or difficult, affecting communication and confidence.
  
  
• Mouth sores and infections: Saliva’s protective properties also help to prevent mouth sores and infections, like oral thrush. A dry mouth creates an environment where infections are more likely to occur and take longer to heal.

Dry mouth management during and after treatment

Whether the cause is direct damage to the salivary glands or the indirect effects of chemotherapy, addressing dry mouth is an essential part of the recovery process. With proper care the impact of dry mouth can be minimised.

There are ways to help alleviate dry mouth symptoms and improve quality of life following mouth cancer treatment. Sipping water throughout the day, particularly during meals, can make swallowing and speaking more comfortable.

In addition, using saliva substitutes such as Oralieve Moisturising Mouth Gel and Spray can help mimic the effects of natural saliva as well as helping to protect the mouth from further oral complications. Oralieve gel can provide lasting relief and is particularly effective during the night. Oralieve spray is a convenient option that you can carry around throughout the day for quick relief from symptoms.  

Along with the help of saliva substitutes, practicing good oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and the use of mouthrinse specially designed for those with dry mouth can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

It is important to maintain regular dental check ups for optimum oral health and to detect any recurring issues.