21 • Drink plenty of fluids each day, if your cancer care team approves. • Drink through a straw to bypass mouth sores. • Eat high-protein, high-calorie foods to speed healing. • Avoid alcohol, carbonated beverages, and tobacco. • Avoid very salty, spicy, or sugary foods. • Avoid acidic fruits and juices, such as tomatoes, oranges, grapefruit, limes, or lemons. • Your doctor can prescribe a “swish and swallow” mouthwash with a numbing agent if needed. • Ask your cancer care team or dietitian about other foods or drinks you should consume or avoid. Dental and gum issues Changes to your teeth and gums can occur as a result of cancer treatments to your oral cavity or because of different medicines. Sometimes losing your appetite and not eating regularly may cause you to not keep your mouth as clean or your teeth brushed and flossed. What to do to keep your teeth and gums healthy • Be sure to see your dentist for a check-up and cleaning before starting cancer treatment. • Remember to brush and floss your teeth regularly. Using a mouth rinse may also help keep your mouth cleaner.
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