Oral Health and Bone Marrow Transplant
Anyone undergoing a bone marrow transplant must ensure that their oral health is in the best possible condition before the procedure. It is important to see a dentist in advance of transplantation - reducing oral bacteria limits the risk of infection during and after treatment, and any existing dental problems should be addressed beforehand. In some cases, unhealthy teeth may be extracted prior to transplant to minimise potential complications.
A bone marrow transplant is a complex procedure, and post-operative care involves strict medication protocols to prevent the body from rejecting the transplant. These drugs - primarily immunosuppressants - are critical to a successful outcome, but they come with significant side effects.
Why Bone Marrow Transplant Causes Dry Mouth
Immunosuppressant drugs, required immediately after transplant and often for a prolonged period afterwards, are well known to cause dry mouth and mouth ulcers. The mouth becomes vulnerable to dryness, soreness and infection at a time when the immune system is deliberately suppressed.
Drinking water helps with general hydration but does not address the underlying dryness - particularly at night or between meals. Patients need a reliable, natural solution that they can use continuously, including alongside their transplant medications.
How XyliMelts can help
- Provides instant relief from oral dryness - adheres to the gum and begins working immediately
- Lasts up to 8 hours per disc - significantly reducing the need for constant water consumption
- Made from 100% natural ingredients with no known contra-indications - safe to use alongside all transplant and immunosuppressant medications
- Reduces the risk of oral infection by maintaining a moist, healthy oral environment
- Helps prevent dental caries and plaque build-up at a time when oral tissues are most vulnerable
- Does not clog the mouth or leave a sticky residue, unlike some saliva replacement gels
- Can be used overnight - applies before sleep and works continuously, so patients do not need to wake to rehydrate their mouth
Using XyliMelts at Night
Post-transplant patients often experience heightened dry mouth discomfort at night, when medication effects peak and natural salivary flow is at its lowest.
XyliMelts are particularly valuable here. Applying two discs - one on each side of the mouth - before sleep provides continuous overnight relief without the need to wake, drink water, or reapply any product. This supports rest and recovery during a critical period.