If mouth dryness bothers you or makes it hard for you to eat, try these tips:
Ask your doctor if you should use an artificial saliva product to
moisten your mouth.
Drink plenty of liquids.
Suck on ice chips, popsicles, or sugarless hard candy. You can also
chew sugarless gum.
Moisten dry foods with butter, margarine, gravy, sauces, or broth.
Dunk crisp, dry foods in mild liquids.
Use lip balm if your lips become dry.
Avoid food with a lot of condiments (chiles, salt, acidity).
If possible, see your dentist before you begin taking interferon to
have your teeth cleaned and to take care
of any problems such as cavities,
abscesses, gum disease, or poorly fitting
dentures.
Brush your teeth after every meal. Use a soft toothbrush and a gentle
touch; brushing too hard can damage
soft mouth tissues.
If your gums are too sensitive for even a soft toothbrush, use a cotton
swab or gauze. Use a nonabrasive
toothpaste or a paste of baking
soda and water.
Rinse your toothbrush well after each use and store it in a dry place.
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