Oral hygiene is extremely important to the patient. Oral care can help enhance the comfort and appetite of the patient, as well as prevent oral diseases.

• Weakened immune system causes the patient to be more prone to infections
• Insufficient water intake
• Side effects of medications and treatment
• Smoking, alcohol abuse and lack of oral care will make the situation worse
• Dentures may loosen due to weight loss and irritate the mucous membrane to cause gum ulcers

• Dry mouth and oral pain; dry lips, cracked corners of the lip and tongue coating
• White spots in the mouth or a smooth and reddish surface on the tongue are signs of infection
• The patients may lose their sense of taste and have difficulty swallowing

• Rinse your mouth after every meal
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and evening, preferably after every meal. Choose a small, soft toothbrush to avoid pain. Use dental floss-type interdental brush. If pain in the mouth intensifies, use swab or finger (with gloves on) to replace toothbrush
• Rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash at least twice a day (avoid using alcohol-based mouthwash, because it would make your mouth drier)
• When you are not eating, remove dentures, brush them with a toothbrush and soak them in clean water
• Drink more water
• Use lip balm more often

• Moisten the mouth with water spray
• Drink more water if dehydrated
• Eat foods that stimulate saliva secretion or moisturise the mouth, such as
  • Drink lemon water
  • Suck on a small ice cube
  • Chew sugar-free gum
  • Suck on fruit pieces, such as pineapple pieces
• Use lip balm more often

• Rinse your mouth with mouthwash
• Suck on fruit pieces, such as pineapple cubes
• Gently rub your tongue with a soft toothbrush

Consult your medical team in case of any questions.