The factors that influence the oral cavity environment of terminal-stage cancer patients and the medical responsiveness

Specifically concerned with appropriate response to xerostomia (dry mouth)

Abstract

This study investigated the factors, which influence the environment of the oral cavity of terminal-stage cancer patients and sought the possibilities of medical responsiveness that can be provided to these patients for these factors as well. We tried to emphasize on maintaining the moisture content of the oral cavity as a modality for oral care. The result suggested that this modality of oral care may be capable of preventing secondary mucosal diseases and increased in the alleviation of discomfort in the oral cavity.
Subjects enrolled in this trial were revealed to have spent more comfortable and improved QOL during their terminal stages with this modality of oral care. This study demonstrated that oral care provided by the dental hygienists is a viable and beneficial means in improving the QOL of these patients during palliative care.