- Check your child’s mouth regularly. Talk to the nurses if you are concerned or unsure about anything in the mouth.
- Regular reviews by the hospital dentist will out rule infection and deal with any tooth decay. The dentist will advise on caring for your child’s mouth.
- Your child’s immune system is likely to be weak during treatment. It’s important to keep their mouth clean to avoid infection. Brush teeth using a soft child’s toothbrush and only use mouthwashes recommended by your dentist, radiation therapist or nurse.
- Use lip balm to help keep the lips moist.
- Take sips of fluids like water or milk often. Drink through a straw.
- Consult with the dietitian about suitable food for your child to eat if they have a sore mouth.
- Keep dummies clean and sterilised.
Sore mouth in children
Some children's cancer treatments can cause a sore mouth (mucotisis).
What are the symptoms?
Your child’s mouth or gums may get sore due to their treatment. They may also get little ulcers on their tongue, gums and inside their cheeks (mucositis). Their mouth may be more sensitive to hot, cold, acidic or spicy food as well. A sore mouth can also make it hard to eat. Drooling or pooling saliva may be a sign of a sore mouth.
If your child has symptoms
Tell your medical team. If your child is having difficulty eating, a dietitian can help with this.
How is it treated?
Your child’s doctor may prescribe mouthwashes, or medications such as painkillers. If your child has an infection your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. In some instances, low-level laser therapy may help the mouth to heal.
Sore mouth - Tips to help
For CAYA patients and their siblings from 0-24yrs, to support the psychosocial needs of a young person. This service is available nationwide, at home or as locally as possible.
The Irish Cancer Society funds a haven on St John’s Ward in Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) at Crumlin, which provides massage, reflexology, mindfulness and meditation to children.
Trained volunteers offering emotional and practical support to anyone whose child is going through or finished their treatment.
Talk to a Cancer Nurse
Support Line
Our Cancer Nurses offer confidential advice, support and information for anyone affected by cancer. Call or email supportline@irishcancer.ie. Video calls available. Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm
In-hospital support
The Irish Cancer Society's Children’s Cancer Nurse at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin Hospital one day per week provides free, confidential advice, support and information to anyone affected by a child’s cancer.
