Endodontics and the irradiated patient.
With increasingly larger numbers of irradiated patients in our population, it seems likely that all denists will eventually be called upon to manage the difficult problems that these patients present. Of otmost concern should be the patient's home care program and the avoidance of osteroradionecrosis. Endodontics and periodontics are the primary areas for preventing or eliminating the infection that threatens osteoradionecrosis. Endodontic treatment must be accomplished with the utmost care and maximum regard for the fragility of the periapical tissues. Pulpally involved teeth should never be left open in an irradiated patient, and extreme care must be taken with the between-visits seal. If one is called upon for preradiation evaluation, routine removal of all molar as well as other compromised teeth should be considered. Attention should be directed to the literature for further advances in the management of irradiated patients.
D003731:Dental Caries / Q000209:etiology; D008336:Mandibular Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D009062:Mouth Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D010025:Osteoradionecrosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D012390:Root Canal Therapy; D014070:Tooth / Q000528:radiation effects*