Helpful Hints for People Receiving Treatment to the Head and Neck Area

Radiation therapy to the head & neck area can change the balance of moisture in the oral cavity (mouth). The saliva (spit) will become thickened, and the mouth will develop xerostomia (dryness). The mouth rinses listed below can help relieve these symptoms.

Pick one mouth rinse and follow these easy instructions:

Baking Soda and Salt Mouthwash
Prepare a gargle by dissolving 1 teaspoon each of salt and baking soda in one quart of warm water. Rinse your mouth and gargle with this solution at least four times a day, especially after meals and before going to bed

Biotene Alcohol-Free Mouthwash and Toothpaste
Use the mouthwash to rinse your mouth at least four to six times per day, especially after meals and before going to bed. Use a soft toothbrush and Biotene toothpaste to gently brush your teeth after each meal and before bedtime

Adolph’s Meat Tenderizer
For a severely dry mouth, prepare a gargle by dissolving 1 tablespoon of Adolph’s meat tenderizer (unflavored) in 8 ounces of warm water. Rinse your mouth and gargle with this solution at least four to six times per day, especially after meals and before going to bed

Papaya juice
Drink several glasses of papaya juice during the day. The enzymes in papaya help break down the thickness of the saliva

Please ask your radiation oncologist or nurse if you have any questions.