The dental management of a mouth cancer patient

Key Points Promotes the role of all members of the dental team in the management of patients with mouth cancer. Reviews current evidence and practice for dentists in relation to the provision of dental care for mouth cancer patients. Explores new techniques and strategies available to aid in the oral healthcare of patients with mouth cancer. Dentists and dental care professionals have a key role to play in the journey of the mouth cancer patient. Involved in the prevention, diagnosis and delivery of oral healthcare before, during and following mouth cancer treatment, dental professionals are essential to the delivery of patient care. This article will explore and consider the priorities of dental pre-assessment and the subsequent delivery of oral healthcare in the context of the different oncology treatment strategies utilised and in end-of-life care. The significant side effects of radiotherapy will be reviewed and clinical dental considerations presented using the existing evidence base and available guidelines. Ensuring mouth cancer does not result in dental disease is an important role for all members of the dental community.