El Harram Sara, Sqalli Tarik
Department of Dental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dentistry, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fes, Fes, MAR.
Laboratory of Epidemiology and Research in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dentistry, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fes, Fes, MAR.
Cureus. 2025 Jan 2;17(1):e76810. doi: 10.7759/cureus.76810. eCollection 2025 Jan.
Radiation-induced caries represent a frequent and serious complication of head and neck radiotherapy, significantly affecting patients' quality of life. Their development results from several factors, including the direct effects of radiotherapy on dental tissues, as well as indirect effects related to xerostomia and changes in saliva. Diagnosis is based on clinical and radiographic assessment, which often reveals a specific pattern of demineralization. The management of these caries requires a comprehensive approach, combining prevention, treatment of lesions, and regular follow-up. It is essential to establish long-term fluoride prophylaxis, and advice on oral hygiene and nutrition, in order to prevent new lesions. The choice of dental restorations must be considered according to the state of salivation and the caries risk, favoring materials adapted to the specificities of radiotherapy.
放射性龋齿是头颈部放疗常见且严重的并发症，显著影响患者生活质量。其发生由多种因素导致，包括放疗对牙齿组织的直接影响，以及与口干症和唾液变化相关的间接影响。诊断基于临床和影像学评估，通常会发现特定的脱矿模式。这些龋齿的管理需要综合方法，包括预防、病变治疗和定期随访。建立长期氟化物预防措施以及提供口腔卫生和营养方面的建议以预防新病变至关重要。必须根据唾液分泌状态和龋齿风险来考虑牙科修复体的选择，优先选用适合放疗特殊性的材料。
