ABSTRACT
Dentists are in a unique position to care for cancer patients before, during and after treatment. This paper outlines foundational knowledge highlighting the dentist's role in the management of patients treated with chemotherapy for various types of cancer as well as those who receive radiation therapy for cancer of the head and neck. The value of the dentist in a multidisciplinary team approach to cancer care is stressed along with specific treatment modalities to improve patient comfort and quality of life.
Subject(s)
Carcinoma, Squamous Cell , Dental Care for Chronically Ill , Head and Neck Neoplasms , Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/drug therapy , Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/radiotherapy , Cranial Irradiation/adverse effects , Head and Neck Neoplasms/drug therapy , Head and Neck Neoplasms/radiotherapy , Humans , Stomatitis/chemically induced , Xerostomia/chemically inducedABSTRACT
Tobacco companies continue to develop and aggressively market new products for oral use. Most new products are intended to dissolve in the mouth and swallow rather than spit out the juices. These products effectively circumvent smoke-free policies, decrease tobacco cessation efforts, and create individuals who use both smokeless tobacco (ST) and cigarettes. All ST products contain nicotine, carcinogens, and pose multiple health risks. The cancer and health risks associated with ST use extend well beyond the changes in the oral cavity and the risk of oral cancer. Unlike cigarettes, the contents of ST vary widely by brand and product posing difficulty in the use of the available pharmacotherapy for cessation. Although no uniform guidelines exist for the use of pharmacotherapy for smokeless tobacco cessation, research suggests that use of these drugs is effective. The most important motivator for quitting ST cessation remains in the hands of the dentist.
