Oral complications of cancer therapy

Oral complications of cancer therapy include a multitude of conditions that compromise a patient's quality of life and can be potentially life threatening. Severe oral pain, infection, and bleeding can result. Often, these oral complications cause postponement of cancer therapy and hospitalization for management. Oral intervention before and after radiation, chemotherapy, and bone marrow and stem cell transplantation can greatly reduce these complications. A close working relationship between oncologists and dental professionals should be established to successfully manage patients undergoing cancer treatment.