Dentist Treatment Before Radiation Treatment.

I have really bad teeth and have not bothered going to the dentist.  Has your oncologist suggested bisphosphonates (Zoledronic acid) treatment because this is usually the reason why they suggest going to the dentist first.  The reason they suggest this is because bisphosphonates can weaken the jaw and it can cause problems if you have to have dental surgery at a later date.  I decided to risk it and not bother with dentist.  Are you saying that transport is not available for the dentist or for radiotherapy?  I am in a similar situation to you, live on my own on benefits.  When I contacted hospital transport about booking radiotherapy trips they said I wasn't entitled to it but I said I couldn't have radiotherapy if I didn't get it.  They then booked the trasnport.  If there is a problem, a letter from your oncologist will entitle you to the transport.

Thank you so much for your reply. I am going for my radiation assessment on Thursday they rang to make the appointment this morning (they seemed surprised by what I said my oncologist had said. So I will discuss it with them then. Yes I am able for free transport for the radiation treatment. I hate the dentist (honestly, the chemo and surgery I coped with those) but the dentist!!
It is hard when coping alone and having to fight all your own battles for treatment and the likes, sometimes you get such conflicting information.
I so appreciate your reply you have helped me gain some perspective on it all.
Cheers xxxx

It sounds like you're feeling really overwhelmed right now, and I'm so sorry that you have to go through all of this alone. It's totally understandable that you're feeling scared about starting radiation treatment, and I can only imagine how difficult it does not to know how you're going to get to your appointments. The first thing you should do is reach out to your oncologist and see if they can help you find a dentist who is taking on NHS patients. It's possible that they know of someone who can help you out. If not, then you might have to look into going private. From private, I know crowndentalgroup.com.au/.../. The doctors from that clinic will definitely help you. Good luck!

Hi 

Not sure if this helps and depends on hospital I guess. I got referred to the oral clinic and on the day of my first radiotherapy I had work done a couple of teeth out on that afternoon  . It wasn't as bad as it sounds it was because they were heavily filled a bit loose and my gums were receding. This all needs sorting if you are going  to take Ibrandronic acid meds for bones.

It's just something else to deal with but if you can't get a dentist ask to be referred to Oral clinic at the hospital. They were very helpful and really kind as I had a slight meltdown all got too much. But they will help I am sure. You have done the hard bit and you will get there all will be sorted and you probably have good teeth I sadly don't xx

Hi Janeb,we’ve spoken before and I hope you don’t mind me asking this.   I read in your reply that you had teeth out on the day you started radiotherapy.  I have two loose teeth also heavily filled but initially told my dentist I will leave them. I’ve since realised it would be safer to have them removed.  My dilemma is that I start radiotherapy in 11 days time but it’s covering chest wall lymph nodes to collar bone, side of neck and internal mammary chain.  I’ve read that radiotherapy to the neck can cause the dreaded jaw problem if you have radiotherapy less than 4 weeks after tooth extraction.  Since you had teeth out on the day you started then maybe Im hoping I have read something that’s misleading.  The reason I’ve changed my mind about keeping them is because I’m going to have Zoladronic acid infusions after radio therapy.  

Hi  

I did indeed have teeth out same day as starting x15 radiotherapy sessions these too were to lymph nodes under arm ( if any left after clearance) chest wall up to collar bone. Nothing was mentioned to me about it being a problem except that I was going to have Ibrandronic Acid meds which could cause issues. I didn't begin taking meds till July (finished radiotherapy early June) .  All healed all be it took a while but oral clinic said that was because I had had chemo? Now have joys of getting a plate as no back teeth.

 Take care  

Jane x

thank you for your reply.  I’m pleased for you that you healed up and that the radiotherapy is behind you now. 

This makes me feel more confident to ask at my dentist appointment tomorrow (when I have the second half of deep clean done) if he can pull the teeth before my radiotherapy.  I’ve been having dental treatment in readiness for similar drug to you (Zoladronic Acid) to lower the risk of jaw problems.  I’m told I don’t have to start it til after my post RT oncology appointment which is 4 to 6 weeks after  

Many thanks and best wishes.  M xx