Mouth problems

Mouth sores and ulcers

Dry mouth

• Rinse your mouth often – when you wake up, after you eat or drink, and at bedtime. Ask your doctor or nurse what type of alcohol-free mouthwash to use and how often to use it. They may give you an easy recipe for a homemade mouthwash. Talk to your doctor and nurse about medicines to relieve pain and help with healing.
• Use a soft toothbrush and replace it often to reduce infections. Brush gently after meals and before bed.
• Suck on ice cubes.
• Avoid rough, crunchy or dry foods (e.g. chips, nuts, toast, crackers). Also avoid vinegar, spices, salty foods, alcohol, very hot or very cold foods and drinks, and citrus or tangy tomato-based food and juice.
• Use a lip balm to keep your lips moist.
• Tell your doctor, dietitian or speech pathologist if you are eating and drinking less because it is hard to swallow.

• Ask your dentist about an oral care plan and have regular check-ups.
• Carry a water bottle and keep having regular sips throughout the day.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine (these can be dehydrating) and avoid smoking.
• Chew sugar-free gum to help the flow of saliva.
• Put lanolin on your lips (avoid petroleum-based products).
• Soften food by dipping it into milk or soup, or moisten it with gravy, sauce, cream or custard.
• Have drinks with meals to help soften the food and make it easier to swallow.
• Acupuncture may help to improve dry mouth. Talk to your doctor before trying it.
• Use artificial saliva, dry mouth gels or lubricating agents from the chemist. Swirl grapeseed oil in your mouth and then spit out.