When Cancer Treatment Affects the Mouth
Dental hygienists are uniquely positioned to identify, assess, and contribute to the management of complex oral manifestations of systemic diseases and their treatments. Among the most debilitating complications encountered in oncology patients is oral mucositis (OM), an inflammatory response of the oral mucosa marked by ulcerations caused by cytotoxic cancer therapies. OM profoundly impacts quality of life, often leading to severe pain, compromised nutrition, increased risk of systemic infection, and even interruption or modification of cancer treatment.
While medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and oncology nurses collaborate to manage the primary disease and its systemic effects, cancer therapies can also significantly affect the oral cavity and require dedicated management. By understanding the intricate pathophysiology of OM, its clinical presentations, and evidence-based management strategies, dental hygienists can help alleviate patient suffering, improve treatment adherence, and contribute to better overall outcomes.
* References and figures can be found in the original article via the link above.
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