People with medical conditions require special consideration when it comes to dental surgery. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) recommends that oncology teams and dental care providers create a comprehensive plan for the stabilization of oral disease. This plan should take into account any chemotherapy or hematopoietic stem cell therapy the patient may have received. After cancer treatment, patients may experience long-term residual effects such as dry mouth, increased risk of tooth decay, or, rarely, latent adverse effects such as osteoradionecrosis of the jaw.
In some cases, it may be appropriate to consider empirical antibiotic prophylaxis protocols before invasive dental procedures for people undergoing cancer treatment, such as those who have had vascular access devices, central venous catheters or ports implanted. It is important for patients to maintain a regular dental removal schedule and optimal oral health after completing cancer treatment. Adults who have survived childhood cancer may be at greater risk of poor oral and dental health due to the late effects of treatment.
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