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Educational Interventions in Oral Hygiene for Patients Undergoing Head and Neck Cancer Radiotherapy: A Feasibility
Sabine Betancourt1, Ana Cavillon2, Marie-Christine Teulières1
1University of Toulouse, Oncopole Claudius Regaud, IUCT-Oncopole, Department of consultations, Toulouse, France.
Summary
Written oral hygiene instructions improved dental health for head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. This approach enhanced oral hygiene practices and patient satisfaction, highlighting its value in supportive cancer care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Oral Health
- Radiotherapy
Background:
- Head and neck cancers constitute approximately 5% of all malignancies.
- Radiotherapy is a key treatment but often causes significant oral health issues and reduced quality of life.
- Effective oral hygiene interventions are crucial for managing radiotherapy-induced complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and benefits of written oral hygiene instructions for head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.
- To evaluate the impact of these instructions on oral hygiene practices and patient-reported outcomes.
- To determine the potential of this intervention in supportive oral care.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, single-center feasibility study involving 44 head and neck cancer patients with a high dental plaque index (≥30%).
- Patients received oral hygiene education and a written information guide from a dental assistant.
- The primary outcome was a ≥30% reduction in dental plaque index at 3 months post-radiotherapy; secondary outcomes included changes in hygiene practices and patient satisfaction.
Main Results:
- 65.6% of evaluable patients achieved the primary outcome of ≥30% reduction in dental plaque index at 3 months post-radiotherapy.
- Significant improvements were observed in tooth brushing frequency (21.9% to 48.4% brushing thrice daily) and mouthwash use (53.1% to 75%).
- Patient satisfaction with the provided information guide was high (97% clarity, 97% comprehensiveness), with sustained motivation toward oral health.
Conclusions:
- Providing written oral hygiene instructions, coupled with education, is a feasible and promising strategy for improving oral hygiene in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.
- The intervention led to better oral hygiene practices and high patient satisfaction, underscoring its role in oral supportive care.
- This approach demonstrates significant potential for mitigating dental complications and enhancing the quality of life for this patient population.
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