Head and neck cancer part 3: dental management

Abstract

This is the third and final paper in the series. Oral and dental complications of head and neck cancers, and the associated treatments, can be devastating to patients. General dental practitioners are likely to encounter affected patients at various points along their treatment journey, which may involve the management of treatment side-effects or facilitating the post-treatment rehabilitation. This paper will discuss accepted preventive regimens for patients, management of treatment side-effects and specific cases of restorative rehabilitation post-treatment, highlighting the levels of treatment that can usually be provided in primary and secondary care settings. CPD/Clinical Relevance: This paper aims to provide the reader with knowledge and confidence to manage the dental needs of head and neck cancer patients and post-treatment side-effects.