Dental care for head and neck radiotherapy, high dose chemotherapy and whole body radiotherapy
Dental care prior to radiotherapy or high-dose chemotherapy in the head and neck region is a critical part of the preparation of cancer patients. This includes a thorough focal examination to identify and address any sources of dental infection that may aggravate or complicate treatment. Teeth with severe periodontal damage or poor long-term prognosis within the planned radiation field are often recommended to be removed. It is important that these extractions are performed atraumatically and with sufficient time for healing, usually 10-14 days before the start of radiotherapy, to avoid complications such as osteoradionecrosis.
During and after the completion of radiotherapy, careful monitoring and care of the patient’s oral health is still required due to the damage that radiation can cause to the salivary glands and jawbone. Radiation therapy reduces saliva secretion and lowers the pH of the mouth, increasing the risk of caries and other dental complications. Therefore, it is important to have a gradual recovery of salivary function and to perform any tooth extractions or other surgical procedures as soon as possible after treatment to minimize the risk of osteoradionecrosis.
Furthermore, radiotherapy to the jaw area can also reduce vascular perfusion and affect healing ability, making the tissue more susceptible to periodontal disease and other complications. Radiation therapy can also cause trismus, which is a limited ability to open the mouth fully, especially when facial muscles and joints are involved in the treatment area. Patients undergoing such treatments should be advised to remove braces and piercings and to avoid tobacco products to reduce the risk of further oral health problems.
At Gloss & Floss Dental Care®, we handle these complex cases with the utmost care and precision, using specialized protocols tailored to address the unique needs of patients preparing for, or recovering from, radiation and chemotherapy.
Our team of oral surgery and orofacial medicine experts are trained to provide the best possible care to ensure safe and effective treatment. Contact us for more information or to book a consultation.
