Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital Conducts Oral Care Training for Cancer Patients

Professor Im Hoisun (left) and dental hygienist Go Ara at Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital are conducting oral health care education for cancer patients under the theme "Love Your Teeth, Healthy Life, Happy Life." Provided by Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital

The Department of Dentistry at Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital recently announced on April 28 that it held a training course to strengthen the capabilities of public health institution professionals as part of the "Community Linkage Project for Discharged Patients," a key area of regional essential medical cooperation. The training took place in the hospital's sharing conference room.

More than 50 visiting healthcare personnel from 27 public health centers, medical centers, health branches, and community health clinics in Gwangju and Jeonnam attended the training.

The training, held under the theme "Love Your Teeth, Healthy Life, Happy Life," featured Professor Im Hoisun and dental hygienist Go Ara as instructors. They used patient case studies to educate participants on the management of remaining teeth and dentures for cancer patients, oral hygiene methods related to cancer treatment, and the reasons why dental consultations are necessary during cancer therapy.

Since its opening in 2004, Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital has operated an oral care clinic for cancer patients. In this training, the hospital explained the importance of examining and treating oral infection sites in cancer patients, eliminating risk factors for trauma, providing patient education and training for preventive oral hygiene, managing oral complications, and practical management methods for oral pain, oral mucositis, and dry mouth, which received a positive response.

For patients undergoing cancer treatment, the instructors advised, "After vomiting, brush your teeth with baking soda and water to prevent erosion of tooth enamel by stomach acid," and emphasized, "Consistent brushing with a soft toothbrush and oral moisturization are important."

Professor Im Hoisun stated, "Oral health is often overlooked during cancer treatment, but it is a critical issue directly linked to nutrition and overall quality of life. Through this training, visiting healthcare personnel in the region will be able to develop the expertise needed to professionally manage the oral health of home-based cancer patients."