Oral Health Effects of Head and Neck Radiation
Health care professionals need to consider the special needs of patients undergoing radiation for head and neck cancer, as these individuals typically require extra care, knowledge, and fluoride to help counter the oral side effects of therapy. The American Dental Association notes that high-risk patients can benefit from additional sources of fluoride, and one option is substituting a regular fluoride toothpaste with a prescription-strength dentifrice containing 5,000-ppm fluoride. In “Oral Health Effects of Head and Neck Radiation,” the authors provide a detailed review of oral health complications from radiotherapy, including oral mucositis, xerostomia, gland dysfunction, soft tissue necrosis, osteoradionecrosis, and oral candidiasis. This insightful article also outlines key steps for effective care, and the importance of periodontal treatment before and after radiation.
* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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