REVIEW PAPER
Dental care of patients undergoing oncological treatment due to head and neck cancers
1
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Calisia University - Kalisz, Poland
2
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Department of Nutrition and Food, Calisia University, Kalisz, Poland
3
Institute of Preventive Research, Calisia University - Kalisz, Poland
4
Department and Clinic of Orthodontics and Facial Developmental Defects, Poznan University of Medical Sciences.
5
Institute of Materials Research and Quantum Engineering, Poznan University of Technology
Corresponding author
Hanna Krauss
Instytut Badań Prewencyjnych, Uniwersytet Kaliski im. Prezydenta S. Wojciechowskiego w Kaliszu
Instytut Badań Prewencyjnych, Uniwersytet Kaliski im. Prezydenta S. Wojciechowskiego w Kaliszu
KEYWORDS
radiotherapydental caredental complicationshead and neck cancerschemotherapymedical nutrition therapy
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Patients with head and neck cancers constitute a special group requiring specialized dental care before, during, and after oncological treatment. Intensive therapies, such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgical procedures, significantly affect the condition of the oral cavity, carrying the risk of numerous complications
Objective:
The aim of this study is to present the principles of dental care for patients with head and neck cancers, with particular emphasis on preparation for oncological treatment, management during therapy, and follow-up care.
Review methods:
A review of scientific literature and current guidelines was conducted regarding dental management in oncological patients.
Brief description of the state of knowledge:
Before the initiation of oncological therapy a comprehensive dental treatment is necessary, including the removal of potential sources of infection and stabilization of oral health. During radiotherapy and chemotherapy, patients may experience numerous complications such as mucositis, xerostomia, osteoradionecrosis, and fungal infections. Regular dental check-ups and appropriate prophylaxis are crucial in minimizing these complications. After the completion of therapy, patients require long-term dental care, which includes monitoring and treatment of late complications, as well as dental rehabilitation aimed at improving the quality of life.
Summary:
Dental care is an integral part of the comprehensive treatment of patients with head and neck cancers. Early dental intervention, regular check-ups, and individually tailored treatment plans can significantly improve the quality of life of patients and reduce the risk of complications associated with oncological treatment
Patients with head and neck cancers constitute a special group requiring specialized dental care before, during, and after oncological treatment. Intensive therapies, such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgical procedures, significantly affect the condition of the oral cavity, carrying the risk of numerous complications
Objective:
The aim of this study is to present the principles of dental care for patients with head and neck cancers, with particular emphasis on preparation for oncological treatment, management during therapy, and follow-up care.
Review methods:
A review of scientific literature and current guidelines was conducted regarding dental management in oncological patients.
Brief description of the state of knowledge:
Before the initiation of oncological therapy a comprehensive dental treatment is necessary, including the removal of potential sources of infection and stabilization of oral health. During radiotherapy and chemotherapy, patients may experience numerous complications such as mucositis, xerostomia, osteoradionecrosis, and fungal infections. Regular dental check-ups and appropriate prophylaxis are crucial in minimizing these complications. After the completion of therapy, patients require long-term dental care, which includes monitoring and treatment of late complications, as well as dental rehabilitation aimed at improving the quality of life.
Summary:
Dental care is an integral part of the comprehensive treatment of patients with head and neck cancers. Early dental intervention, regular check-ups, and individually tailored treatment plans can significantly improve the quality of life of patients and reduce the risk of complications associated with oncological treatment
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