Dental Implications in Oncology

Question 1

In HPV which strains are related to H&N

Answer 1

16 and 18

Question 2

What is HPV linked to and tx?

Answer 2

Linked younger pt - don’t smoke/ consume heavy alcohol
Linked orogential and oroanal sex and increased no partners
Tx: radio and chemotherapy

Question 3

What is PET scan?

Answer 3

Injection of dye to show metabolic activity

Question 4

What team members are involved in oncology?

Answer 4

Oncologist, radiologist, surgeon, dentist, ward staff, admin, speech and language therapist
Other: clinical psychologist, occupational therapist, physiotherapy

Question 5

Aim dental assessment pre-tx?

Answer 5

Pre-prosthetic planning/ tx
Planning XLA teeth doubtful prognosis
Restoration teeth
Preventative advice and tx

Question 6

Tx side effects?

Answer 6

1. Mucositis - inflammation and ulceration mucosal lining
2. Infection - chemo causes neutropenia - increase susceptibility
3. Xerostomia

Question 7

Long term side effects tx?

Answer 7

1. Dental caries - linked xerostomia
2. Trismus - surgical scarring or radiotherapy induced fibrosis of M.O.M
3. Osteoradionecrosis

Question 8

Prevent dental side effects tx?

Answer 8

1. Maintain good oral hygiene
2. Dietary advice - re caries prevention
3. Topical fluoride application
4. Tooth Mousse - calcium and phosphate (not available NHS)
5. Saliva replacement

Question 9

Rehab for pts?

Answer 9

Consider reconstruction - prosthetic options/ implants

Question 10

What is an obturator?

Answer 10

Removable prosthesis - alternative bone and implant reconsturction