Tooth Decay

Radiotherapy to the head & neck region causes xerostomia (dry mouth) and salivary gland dysfunction which dramatically increases the risk of tooth decay. Radiation therapy also affects the dental hard tissues increasing their susceptibility to demineralization.

Not for use in Television Close-up of damage to the enamel of teeth in an adult female patient, affected by chemotherapy for breast cancer. Chemotherapy can upset saliva production and disrupt the bacterial balance in the mouth, leading to tooth decay.