Oral Health Effects of Head and Neck Radiation

A collaborative treatment plan is necessary for patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer, as they are susceptible to side effects that manifest in various tissues of the oral cavity.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES
After reading this course, the participant should be able to:

1. Explain the prevalence of head and neck cancer, as well as the estimated percentage of patients who will undergo radiation therapy and develop resulting oral complications.
2. Discuss the categorization of head and neck cancer, and common approaches to treatment.
3. List the oral complications of head and neck cancer therapy, and clinical management strategies for oral health professionals.

This course was published in the May 2018 issue and expires May 2021. The authors have no commercial conflicts of interest to disclose. This 2 credit hour self-study activity is electronically mediated.