Dental Care in Head and Neck Cancer

Head and Neck Cancer

• Head and neck cancer is a major global health problem with approximately 500,000 new cases diagnosed annually.
• The incidence of head and neck cancer appears to be increasing in developing countries.
• Head and neck cancer refers to cancer that develops in the mouth, throat, nose, salivary glands, or other areas of the head and neck.

Risk Factors

• 85% of head and neck cancers are linked to tobacco use.
• 75% of head and neck cancers are associated with a combination of tobacco and alcohol use, which are strong synergistic effects for oral cancer.
• Human papilloma virus (HPV), especially types 16 and 18, is a known risk factor and independent causative factor for oral cancer.

Characteristics of Head and Neck Cancer Patients

• Most patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma are middle-aged, adult males in lower socioeconomic classes.
• These patients tend to be chronic tobacco chewers and alcohol consumers.
• They often have advanced tumors and less social support compared to other cancer patients.

Importance of Multidisciplinary Approach

• Preventing and treating orofacial complications requires a multidisciplinary approach involving a dedicated team of healthcare professionals.
• This team includes a radiation oncologist, head and neck surgeon, dentist, nurse, dietician, physical therapist, social worker, and in some cases, plastic surgeon, prosthodontist, and psychologist.

Radiation Dosimetry

• Radiotherapy (RT) aims to deliver the correct radiation dose to the tumor while minimizing the dose received outside the tumor zone.
• Radiation doses are expressed in grays (Gy), which is defined as J/kg.
• Most orofacial complications are dose-dependent, and severe side effects occur when doses exceed certain thresholds.

This quiz covers the importance of dental care during and after radiotherapy in head and neck cancer patients, including the risks and complications of treatment.