Abstract
The clinical management of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck causes oral sequelae that can compromise
patients’ quality of life and necessitate abandonment or reduction of optimal therapeutic regimens, which in
turn reduces the odds of long-term survival. Such sequelae can be prevented or at least better managed if dental
and medical health care providers work together. It is therefore essential that dentists have an understanding of
cancer therapy and a sound working knowledge of the prevention and management options for the oral sequelae
of cancer treatment. This paper offers the dental team an overview of the consequences associated with radiotherapy,
as well as a systematic overview of preventing or managing acute and chronic conditions before and during
radiotherapy. In addition, it reviews considerations for continued treatment needs during the patient’s lifetime.
MeSH Key Words: cranial irradiation/adverse effects; osteoradionecrosis/prevention & control; stomatitis/prevention & control;
xerostomia/prevention & control
© J Can Dent Assoc 2003; 69(9):585–90
This article has been peer reviewed.