Xerostomia: Complication of chemotherapy and Head/Neck radiation

Physiology

Saliva is commonly produced by salivary gland. The human body has three major salivary glands namely parotid, submaxillary which are paired and sublingual unpaired. These salivary glands contribute to 90 percent of saliva and other minor salivary glands are distributed throughout the oral cavity on labial, lingual and palatal surface.

The parotid gland consists of serous acini-secreting saliva. The sublingual secretes mucinous whereas submandibular secretes combination of both serous and mucinous saliva. Saliva is a fluid for maintenance and functionality. It is helpful in swallowing of solid food allowing its passage through oesophagus and has a especial role in taste sensitivity and easy for speech it also balances PH of the mouth protecting the soft tissue of oral cavity. Antibacterial and antifungal components of the saliva, such as lysozymes, immunoglobulins and lactoferrin, inhibit the progression of bacterial infection and dental caries.

Dry Mouth

When the mouth gets dry and uncomfortable and there is no enough saliva this condition is called dry mouth (Xerostomia). Commonly, the treatment like chemotherapy and radiation for carcinomas of salivary gland tumours are one of the reasons for the Xerostomia. Generally, this condition is temporary likely to be recovered after 2-3 months of chemotherapy ends however, there is possibility of not being able to recover fully. The amount of saliva decreases after one week of radiation therapy and continues to decrease as the treatment goes on and the severity of dryness is depending on the dose of radiation and the number of salivary glands that receive radiation.

Symptoms of Dry Mouth:

• Increased thirst.
• Thick saliva.
• Problems taste, swallowing, or speech.
• A sore or burning feeling (especially on the tongue).
• Cuts or cracks in the lips or at the corners of the mouth.
• Changes in the surface of the tongue.
• Problems wearing dentures.

Care of Dry Mouth:

1. Brushing for 2 times a day.
2. Use of fluoridated toothpaste.
3. Apply fluoride paste once a day after brushing at night.
4. Apply dry mouth gel to relieve the symptoms.
5. Sip water often to relieve dry mouth.
6. Avoid sugar added supplement and food.

Solution is with GC:

GC Dry Mouth Gel is designed to ease the symptoms of dry mouth for patients who may be medications, radiation treatment or diseases that can damage the salivary glands. This product provides a protective coating for teeth and oral tissue. 

Uniquely, unlike most saliva substitutes, Dry Mouth Gel has a neutral pH, meaning that effective symptomatic relief can be provided, whilst preserving oral pH within the safe range to prevent demineralization.

This pleasant-tasting, sugar-free product is available in five delicious Flavors (raspberry, fruit salad, mint, lemon and orange).

 Why choose GC Dry Mouth Gel? 

• Helps to relieve dry mouth and providing long lasting comfort. 
• Relieves up to 4 hours
• Neutral pH preserves oral pH in the safe range to prevent demineralisation.
• Sugar free and alcohol free
• Pleasant taste and safe to swallow.
• Simple finger application and easy to use.
• Does not interfere with the action of fluoride products or GC Tooth Mousse®
• Can be used by denture wearers, children, and anyone experiencing dry mouth symptoms.

Credits: Oral Complications of Chemotherapy and Head/Neck Radiation (PDQ®)–Patient Version originally published by National Cancer Institute.

Source: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/mouth-throat/oral-complications