title: Oral considerations for the cancer patient.
abstract: An increasing number of patients are undergoing cancer chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy and are experiencing side effects in their mouths. A thorough oral examination is important in the overall pretherapy evaluation of these patients, and, along with a consideration for the patient's disease, treatment, prognosis and laboratory values, allows for realistic planning for dental management prior to, during and following cancer therapy. The early establishment of a good working relationship with the patient and those caring for him or her, and an understanding of the importance of compliance with oral hygiene will eliminate needless therapy-induced morbidity and mortality.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dentistry, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte.
authors.forename: P B
authors.initials: PB
authors.lastname: Lockhart
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Kutcher
mesh_terms: D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003730:Dental Care for Persons with Disabilities; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D009059:Mouth Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D009910:Oral Hygiene; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D000970:Antineoplastic Agents