I am so glad that the social worker cleared things up for you. I tend to listen alot to things going around me and I felt so bad for the young guy at the ENT's office that did not have insurance.

Nobody on my medical team urged me to see a dentist beforehand. However, thanks to several people on this forum, OCF, I took it upon myself to have my teeth all checked out and cleared before I started radiation. I ended up having to see a dentist I had never seen before because I wanted to get it done QUICKLY and get it out of the way.

As for the radiation on the salivary glands. My mouth got really dry. I experienced what alot of people here experienced... nasty mucous attacks, and I'm still having dry mouth problems. Happy to report though that I was able to eat a Sonic cheeseburger yesterday and things are improving.

The first couple weeks of radiation you wonder what the big deal is. It catches up to a person by the end and extends for awhile afterwards. Everybody's mileage may vary.

Good luck to your sister. I would suggest that she find a dentist right away and get her teeth all checked out. Glad to hear the social worker visit worked out so well for you.

Jen