When to apply for treatment?
Seeking treatment
As a general rule, all cancer patients benefit from infection risk management.
During long-term follow-up in former cancer patients, oral health, including saliva production, proves to be a particularly important factor influencing quality of life. Intensifying the maintenance of oral health is relevant to all cancer patients whose therapies include cytotoxic medicines, newer immunotherapies or targeted biological medicines, all of which weaken the immune system, radiation therapy that may result in tissue damage and dry mouth, or bone-modifying agents.
Depending on the stage of the cancer, such therapies are often administered to patients with some of the most common cancers, including but not limited to, cancers of the breast, prostate, intestines and lungs. For blood cancer patients receiving stem cell implants, oral care includes specific features that require a collaborative effort by a multidisciplinary team.
Oral health assessment
To minimise treatment side effects and prevent complications arising from infections, the best time to assess oral health is right after the cancer has been diagnosed. However, before any treatment procedures are commenced, the nature of the cancer, the urgency of the treatment and the infection risk are always taken into consideration.
Top priority is given to the patient’s mental well-being and to taking all the time needed to discuss with the patient the reasons and goals for the treatment together with the associated risks. Patient–dentist teamwork is particularly important for the success of oral care. The patient should always be made aware of the reason behind oral care and how the care may affect their overall prognosis and quality of life. Comprehensive instructions for self-care, aided by a carer if necessary, improve quality of life. The wishes of a well-informed patient are prioritised when planning and providing treatment, including restoration of chewing ability following cancer therapy.
For a better overall prognosis and quality of life, any invasive surgical procedures can often be performed only after the actual cancer treatment has been completed. In such cases, antibacterial, antiviral or antifungal medicines are used during cancer treatment to prevent or treat any dental infection complications in collaboration with the treating physician. Good oral hygiene and individually chosen oral care products that strengthen the teeth and prevent mucosal infections also contribute to the prevention of generalised infection complications.