Surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are the most frequently used treatments, but each can have long-lasting side effects. Dental professionals have a real opportunity to help patients through their head and neck cancer rehabilitation or recovery.
It is essential to take care of dental health before undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. In particular, radiation therapy can cause changes in the bone which may compromise healing following dental extractions. By removing any infected, decayed or compromised teeth before radiation, the dentist can help to minimize problems during and after head and neck cancer rehabilitation. If the salivary glands are affected by radiation, saliva (which protects the teeth from decay) will be reduced and dental decay can occur rapidly. We can provide the latest information on minimizing dental decay following head and neck radiation treatment.
At Restore Dental, we firmly believe in providing a holistic approach to head and neck cancer rehabilitation – we’re not just treating teeth but also caring for the patient’s whole person This is why our dental team will always take time to listen carefully to what your experience and goals as we agree an oral cancer rehabilitation plan.
Give us a call on 07 3483 2000 to chat with our team today about head and neck cancer recovery.
Head and Neck Cancer Recovery Options
Radiation Treatment
If you are currently undergoing radiation treatment to the head and neck region or have done so recently, we provide comprehensive oral cancer rehabilitation advice to manage the oral side effects. Contact us today by emailing reception@restoredental.com.au or via our online form, and book an appointment to discuss your head and neck cancer rehabilitation or recovery with Dr Robinson.
Replacement of Missing Teeth
If you have lost part of either jaw due to cancer, trauma or other surgery, we can work with your surgical team to plan and deliver the best possible oral cancer rehabilitation, helping to restore function, aesthetics and improve your quality of life. Conventional dentures, implant supported removable or fixed appliances may be used to replace your missing teeth.
Oral Prosthetics
Surgery to the upper jaw or palate can result in a defect between the oral and nasal cavities requiring either surgical or prosthodontic repair. If appropriate, we can provide an appliance (palatal obturator) before surgery that aims to seal the defect allowing you to speak and eat during the healing phase. This will often be replaced with a definitive appliance (palatal obturator) in 6-12 months, which recreates the mouth and nose seal, allowing you to eat and speak effectively.
Common oral health side effects caused by cancer treatments
Tooth Decay
Your teeth may become prone to decay as you might have more trouble producing saliva and its quality is reduced.
Oral Mucositis
Radiation and chemotherapy treatment can cause damage to the mouth's cell linings, causing sores, ulcers, and bleeding. This usually lasts for a few weeks after the treatment is completed.
Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums may happen as the blood platelet count drops when undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.
Mouth Infections
When undergoing cancer treatment, oral thrush is more common.
If you are experiencing any of these problems, please get in touch with a dentist as soon as possible to work out a treatment plan.
Head and Neck Cancer Rehabilitation and Recovery
If you’re seeking help with head and neck cancer recovery or rehabilitation, or wish to enquire about our other dental services, contact the friendly professionals at our family dental clinic today by calling 07 3483 2000 booking an appointment online or emailing reception@restoredental.com.au, and we’ll be in touch shortly.
Frequently Asked Questions About General Dentistry
General dentistry refers to dental care that is used to prevent, diagnose, and treat common dental problems. This includes regular check-ups, teeth cleaning, fillings and diagnosing and treating gum disease.
We recommend seeing a dentist every six months or at least once a year. This is to ensure your oral health is maintained and that small problems don’t turn into larger ones – which can end up being painful and costly in the long run. Catching problems early allows us to create a dental treatment plan, that can quickly solve problems before they become severe. Contact our Chermside Family Dentist today for a check-up.
Dental issues can be presented in many different ways, but the most common symptoms are pain, discomfort, cracked teeth, bleeding from gums, or bad breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, we recommend getting in touch with a dentist as soon as possible.
Metal fillings were popular for quite many years and do still have a place in some circumstances. While they are durable, many people find silver amalgam fillings unsightly – and they can leave weakened teeth unsupported. If you’re unhappy with how your metal fillings look, our Chermside family dental team can replace them with a composite resin that closely matches the colour of your teeth.
At Restore Dental, we aim to offer general dentistry treatment that’s as painless as possible, using gentle techniques and a soothing atmosphere. We take the time to explain the procedure and communicate with patients every step of the way. If you suffer from anxiety or are apprehensive about the procedure, we will discuss options for managing your concerns. Dr Davies has a particular interest in helping anxious patients through dental treatment.