05/29/2026
Five signs a cancer patient can recognize on their own that they should see a dental oncologist as soon as possible:
1. Sudden, Severe Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Your mouth is constantly dry, thick, or sticky, making it difficult to speak, swallow, or wear dentures.
2. Painful Mouth or Throat Sores (Mucositis): You have red, swollen, or bleeding sores or ulcers that make eating and drinking unbearable.
3. New or Worsening Pain in a Tooth or Jaw: You feel tooth pain, tenderness, or a loose tooth, especially if you have had radiation to the head/neck area.
4. Inability to Open Your Mouth Wide (Trismus): Your jaw muscles feel tight, stiff, or locked, significantly restricting how far you can open your mouth.
5. White or Red Patches or Unhealing Lesions: You notice unusual white patches (thrush or other infection) or a sore that hasn't healed within a week or two.
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Free book for Cancer patients and survivors! If you have undergone cancer treatment of any kind, your dental/oral health may be at risk!
Dr. K is one of the ONLY Dental Oncologists in the San Fernando Valley and is the author of "Take Back the Smile That Cancer Stole: The Cancer Survivor's Guide to Better Dental Health (Free to Cancer patients and survivors).
To schedule an appointment (and to request your free book), please give our office a call at 818-986-9036
