Sore mouth self-care advice

Clean your teeth or dentures gently every morning, evening and after each meal.

Leave your dentures steeping overnight. This can help to keep your mouth clean.

Use a soft-bristled or child’s toothbrush.

Alcohol-based mouth rinses should be avoided.

Keep your lips moist by using Vaseline, or a lip balm.

Cold foods and drinks can be soothing to a sore mouth. Try adding crushed ice to drinks and eating ice cream or soft milk jellies, unless you are receiving oxaliplatin.

If you are receiving oxaliplatin chemotherapy for colorectal cancer avoid crushed ice.

Let your chemotherapy nurse know if you develop mouth ulcers, as you may need medicines to help heal the ulcers and clear any infection.

If your doctor prescribes a mouthwash for you, use it regularly as prescribed to prevent soreness.

If buying over the counter mouth washes, non-alcohol ones are best.

If you develop any sores, avoid eating food with high acidity (i.e. lemons, oranges), too hot or food with hard texture to avoid additional irritation. Opt for softer texture foods, add sauces or gravies to your meal, in lukewarm/ cold temperature.

Avoid the use of any toothbrush in the case of a sore mouth – use the tooth paste directly on your finger and gently rub over your teeth and gums and then follow up with the mouthwash your nurse suggested to you.

Take your painkillers as prescribed.

Complementary and alternative therapies may help, but always consult with your chemotherapy care team about it.