Oral health care in head and neck cancer

Abstract

Many head and neck cancer patient are not treated in large cancer centers that have dental oncologists as part of the cancer care team. They are being treated in smaller cancer centers or private oncology practices where they may not be a focus on oral health. These people are coming to their regular dental offices for care, often with side effects of their cancer treatment. Standards and protocols are detailed for use in a general dental practice. This course consolidates current recommendations into specific protocols that are easily implemented in the general dental practice. The goal is to give dentists and dental hygienists the confidence to treat head and neck cancer patients effectively and with concern for the whole person who needs special care at this vulnerable time.