Oral considerations for the cancer patient.

An increasing number of patients are undergoing cancer chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy and are experiencing side effects in their mouths. A thorough oral examination is important in the overall pretherapy evaluation of these patients, and, along with a consideration for the patient's disease, treatment, prognosis and laboratory values, allows for realistic planning for dental management prior to, during and following cancer therapy. The early establishment of a good working relationship with the patient and those caring for him or her, and an understanding of the importance of compliance with oral hygiene will eliminate needless therapy-induced morbidity and mortality.