Indian Journal of Dental Research (Jan 2011)

Dental consultation in patients planned for/undergoing/post radiation therapy for head and neck cancers: A questionnaire-based survey

  • Apeksha Mainali,
  • K N Sumanth,
  • Ravikiran Ongole,
  • Ceena Denny

DOI
https://doi.org/10.4103/0970-9290.93454
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 22, no. 5
pp. 669 – 672

Abstract

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Background: Mouth and pharyngeal cancers account for approximately 6% of cancers worldwide. Radiotherapy is one of the means of treatment of head and neck cancer. Consultation with a dental team experienced in caring for patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer will improve the quality of life of such patients. Aims and Objectives: To evaluate the attitude of oncologists toward dental consultation to patients planning for/prior to/undergoing/post radiation therapy for head and neck cancers and to evaluate the number of radiation oncologists who encounter oral complaints and consider worth referring to a dentist. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based study was carried out following mailing of covering letter and self-administered questionnaire comprising 11 items, to 25 radiation oncology centers selected in India based on convenient sampling. Results: Out of the 25 centers, we received response from 20 centers with 60 completely filled questionnaires. Five centers did not respond for further correspondences. Conclusion: The study indicated a need for awareness and education among radiation oncologists regarding dental consultation in patients planned/undergoing /post radiation therapy for head and neck cancer.

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