Applied Sciences
| Open Access |
DOI: Improving the Prevention and Treatment of Oral Mucositis During Chemotherapy for Oral Cavity Cancer
Abstract
Oral mucositis is one of the most common and clinically significant complications of anticancer therapy, particularly in patients receiving chemotherapy for malignant neoplasms of the oral cavity. It is characterized by inflammation, erythema, ulceration, pain, impaired oral intake, and deterioration of the patient's quality of life. Severe mucositis may also increase the risk of secondary infection, treatment interruptions, dose reductions, and hospitalization. Therefore, early prevention, timely diagnosis, and individualized treatment are important components of comprehensive dental and oncological care. This article reviews current approaches to the prevention and management of chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis in patients with oral cavity cancer. Particular attention is given to oral hygiene, professional dental care, patient education, nutritional support, saline and bicarbonate rinses, pain control, infection prevention, and selected pharmacological and supportive interventions. A multidisciplinary approach involving oncologists, dentists, dental hygienists, nurses, and nutrition specialists can significantly improve oral health outcomes and help patients maintain continuity of cancer treatment.
Keywords
Oral cancer, chemotherapy, oral mucositis
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Copyright (c) 2026 Malika Shavkatovna Akhrorova, Shohsanam Azamat qizi Khushboqova
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