I have to admit that I have become lazier about the trays. I use a .09 foam and the dentist uses a 1.8 strength foam so I wouldn't stop in office flouride treatments - remember to bring your trays - it's much more comfortable than the "one size fits all type". I do go every 3 months for cleaning. I have to pay out of pocket for 2 of them but it is cheap insurance. My gums are healthy, I floss nightly and religiously use Biotene toothpaste.

And, yes, there is a lifetime risk of ORN and radiation is very hard on the gums.

Debz, most of us had dental trays made prior to Tx. They are basically the same type trays that many use for whitening their teeth. It's around $200.00 but worth it.

I prefer a prescription foam type flouride that I get from the dentist. It is pH neutral (i.e. no burning sensation) and can even be used during treatment with relatively little discomfort. Oral B and Butler make similar fouride foam.

I have very good salivary function now. When I had dry mouth issues I used the trays several times a week. It is essential if you want to protect your teeth from decay.


Gary Allsebrook
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Dx 11/22/02, SCC, 6 x 3 cm Polypoid tumor, rt tonsil, Stage III/IVA, T3N0M0 G1/2
Tx 1/28/03 - 3/19/03, Cisplatin ct x2, IMRT, bilateral, with boost, x35(69.96Gy)
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"You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14 NIV)