I have been following this web site for months, while my husband underwent treatment. During that time, I was too stressed and busy to register or post. I want to thank all who do post and answer questions. The info and support has been very helpful.

My husband is now 6 weeks post tx. He is improving but it is all still very difficult, especially the continuing mouth sores, swelling on one side, and thick mucus, alternating with dry mouth. Continues on PEG tube feedings (2 Cal). Recently increased oral diet from clear fluids to puree soups, etc.

Thinking about trying to restart fluoride tx. Trays were made and used prior to rad but stopped due to gagging/burning during tx. I have seen different recommendations for fluoride strength. SPOHNC publication: stannous flouide 0.4% or neutral sodium flouide 5,000 parts per million. Our dentist gave my husband GC MI Paste Plus, sodium flouride 0.2% W/W (900 ppm).
Any comments?

Also, I am considering a dental consult at Dana-Faber, where we went for second opinion, prior to starting rad/chemo at local cancer center. We do not have a dentist specializing in OC in our area. Anyone have experience/comments with this?


My main two questions:
(1) Anything to do for mouth sore inside swollen cheek area that is not healing (other than usual recommendations of baking soda sol, numbing/coating agents, etc.)?

(2) Correct fluoirde strength for dental trays?

Thank you very much, Travelottie


CG to husband, dx @ age 65, nonsmoker/social drinker. Dx 5/08 SCC Stage IV, BOT T1N2aM0. 33 IMRT - completed 9/12/08. Induction Chemo (Cisplatin, Taxotere & 5FU), plus concurrent Cisplatin.
1/09 PEG removed; 5/09 neg PET/CT; 5/10 PET/CT NED
Dental extraction & HBOT 2013; ORN 2014; Debridement/Tissue Transfer & HBOT 2016