Oral and dental management for head and neck cancer patients treated by chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

UNLABELLED

The incidence of head and neck cancer is rising. The attendant oral complications of cancer management make oral health maintenance a lifelong challenge for these patients. Holistic management in the context of a core multidisciplinary team is essential in optimizing outcomes. Predicting the risk of adverse oral outcomes is difficult. Effective communication between healthcare professionals in the core and extended teams and with the patient is essential.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Primary care dental teams will be involved in the long-term management of oral care for head and cancer patients. A broad understanding of the management of head and neck cancer, consequences of treatment and the need for good communication is key to good quality patient care.